By: Dan

Dan — Wed, 31 Mar 2010 17:22:26 +0000

Matt, not sure that you posted in the right place, as I think that was supposed to go in your own blog section, but I’m glad I got to read it. Either you are a Freemason, or you accidentally echoed one of the major ideals of Freemasonry in your article. In either case, I like the use of the square to symbolize both your relationship with your father and with his ideals!

By: Matthew Arant

Matthew Arant — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 05:08:51 +0000

The six inch slide square is one of my favorite tools. Small enough to avoid being awkward in a tool belt while remaining useful for a number of efforts in carpentry. Squaring up a 2×4 before cutting, checking the corners on door frames and cabinets, and thin enough to clear small crevices of dust and debris. This tool is what reminds me most of my father. When the smell of pine sawdust mixed with sweat perfuses my senses, I am taken back to my childhood and memories of working with my dad as a carpenter. When I feel his old square in my hand, it exemplifies my father. The square has a heft to it lacking in many of it counterparts today. It has been handled till the edges are smooth yet it still functions perfectly. It feels solid in my hands and reminds me the character my dad displays in his life. Constant and consistent, always providing a true comparison to the environment and conditions in which I find myself. Whether using it to complete some final details of a cabinet or considering choices to make in life, like that square, my father is a man of integrity. Solid, dependable, quiet yet firm in his makeup and life. My father demonstrates what character means and how to live a life worthy of following. He rarely ever preaches specifics but, like his square, remains true to principle and purpose. His square can be trusted because it is a quality tool, well made, and dependable. When someone tells me they can see my father in me, I am proud to imitate him and reflect the kind of man he is. If I can build the reputation my father has, I know it will be one that demonstrates honorable character. If I can become the same kind of man my father is, I will have a life well lived.

Comments on: One More Week to Submit an Entry to the Lessons in Manliness Group Writing Project

By: Dan

By: Kári

By: Matthew Arant