When you know who you are; when your mission is clear and you burn with the inner fire of unbreakable will; no cold can touch your heart; no deluge can dampen your purpose. You know that you are alive.
– Chief Seattle
I hold this quote close to my heart. I’ve scribbled it into all of my planners, notebooks, and even an actual book or two. Recently, Chief Seattle’s words have called to mind something a dear friend told me: “You pursue all things with grit and grace.”
The determination to see things through and the strength of character to stand your ground – that’s the definition of Grit, and what I hope you’ll find in the pages of this issue. Former park ranger Chiggers Stokes untangles the complicated world of knots; Nathaniel Munro shows us just how much hard work it takes to thatch a roof; Carolyn Tomlin reports on the folk art of broom-making; Josh Lau has us out in the mud catchin’ our own bait; and more.
However, there’s another side to that grittiness: grace. Grace is more than balance; it’s finding the beauty in what’s around you, striving to hold your head high despite the harsh weather, and stopping to smell the roses – just don’t get stung by a bee.
This early spring issue of Grit is all about the determination of spirit and the beauty of nature. So, kick back, grab a drink, and enjoy the little things in life … and then go play in the mud and plant you something pretty. I know I will.
P.S. Show me your spring and summer projects! I’d love to hear from you and chat about living our best country lives. Email me at KGarrison@OgdenPubs.com.
