The Hidden Rewards of Workmanship

Newsletter #2 (July 2024)

The Hidden Rewards of Workmanship

Many, many moons ago. I flew my first Atlantic crossing.? Not too big a challenge by today’s standards but in the era before GPS or INS, it was a combination of art and science.? My KC-135 crew included a 22-year-old boom operator who was skilled with a sextant, a 23-year-old navigator fresh out of Nav school, a 23-year-old copilot, and me – the old man at 26. We took our last land-based navigation fix off a VOR somewhere in Labrador and headed east operating under “due regard,” checking in with position reports every 30 minutes over our HF radio. We had a “winded flight plan” that was of limited use due to changing weather conditions due to a big storm in the North Atlantic. It was pretty sure we wouldn’t miss Europe, but “coasting in” on course at Shannon was a little scary to me.

I recall the calm professionalism of the Boom and Nav as the script played out. The Nav providing key coordinates for the Boom to “shoot the stars” with the sextant extended from the top of our Boeing 707, followed soon by the self-assured voice of the Boom Operator – “I have the body,” and a list of data he fed back to the Nav, who triangulated our position like the mariners of old. “Come left to 097” he said. “Are you sure?” I asked, “that’s pretty far off what the flight plan says.” “Trust me,” he replied. “It’s math, something you pilots wouldn’t understand.”

We coasted in on time, on course, and what felt like a decade older – or at least a decade more confident. We all felt it – the intrinsic pride of professionalism in a tough job well done. It’s a lesson I have never forgotten.

In a world increasingly obsessed with technology, efficiency, and outside interests, the concept of workmanship—dedicated, meticulous, and skilled labor—often feels like a relic of the past. However, buried within this overlooked virtue are hidden rewards that can transform not only our work but our lives.

The Satisfaction of Mastery

In a society where instant gratification reigns supreme, the profound satisfaction that comes from mastering a craft is unparalleled. Whether it’s the smooth glide of a carpenter’s plane over wood, the precise stitches of a tailor, or navigating across an open ocean by the stars, the deep connection to one's work fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment. This isn’t just about achieving perfection; it’s about the journey towards it. The repetitive practice, the incremental improvements, and the eventual mastery provide a fulfilling experience that transcends the immediate results.

The Integrity of Quality

Workmanship embodies integrity. In an age where planned obsolescence is the norm, creating something that lasts is a radical act of defiance. Quality workmanship resists the disposable culture of our times, valuing durability and sustainability over short-term gains. This integrity isn’t just about materials or techniques; it’s about a commitment to excellence and an unwavering dedication to producing the best work possible. Such commitment can be contagious, inspiring those around us to also strive for higher standards and greater integrity in their own pursuits.

The Joy of Creation

At its core, workmanship is about creation. It’s about bringing something new and valuable into the world. This act of creation is inherently joyful and deeply human. The tactile engagement, the problem-solving, and the artistry involved in making something – or doing something difficult – reconnects us to our primal roots. This joy isn’t just personal; it has the power to resonate with others, creating connections and fostering a sense of community. In a digital age, where virtual and ephemeral dominate, the tangible and the enduring become even more precious.

The Legacy of Craftsmanship

Workmanship leaves a legacy. It’s not by chance I recall my first Atlantic crossing 40 years later. It shaped me and left a lasting imprint on how I do things. Skilled craftsmanship preserves cultural heritage and personal histories, offering a different perspective in a fast-paced world of mediocrity.

The hidden rewards of workmanship are many, reaching far beyond the immediate outputs of our labor. They encompass the satisfaction of mastery, the integrity of quality, the joy of creation, and the enduring legacy of craftsmanship. In embracing these rewards, we don’t just elevate our work; we enrich our lives and the lives of those around us. In a world that often prioritizes speed and convenience, it’s time we rediscover the profound value of workmanship and the timeless rewards it offers.

What are your thoughts or stories?