Being a Craftsman

Two of the definitions of "communication" provided in the dictionary are that it is "an exchange of thoughts, messages or information" and that it represents "the art and technique of using words effectively in imparting one's ideas." This act serves as mankind's ultimate device for sharing and passing along their thoughts and feelings. Depending upon how it is used, communication is both the ultimate connector as well as the definitive divider. Either way, it is a powerful act. And the reality is some people are better at it than others. Some are more fluid with language while others struggle in how to make it best represent their thoughts and intentions. Some take it seriously while others do not.


This brings me to an old Turkish saying: "The man who uses his hands is a laborer. The man who uses his mind is a master. But the man who gives his heart to the passion is a craftsman." When it comes to communication, we all labor at finding the proper words or symbols to express ourselves. And then there are those who devote themselves to being the best they can be at this act. They are the masters. But the one who gives both their heart and mind to this practice is the true craftsman. This, to me, spells the difference between those who strive to use communication as a way of building and maintaining bridges with others versus those who use it to support or achieve their own ends.


Every time we put pen to paper, open our mouths or make a physical gesture we are making a choice: do we wish to simply share what is on our mind or, in doing that, are we going to try and achieve a higher purpose of striving to make an actual connection with another; to let others know we share their struggles, embrace their hope of better tomorrows, and are willing to work with them to achieve this end? The choice we make communicates whether we are going to be a laborer or a craftsman. It is the difference between doing what any one can do versus what only a few actually achieve.