April 6, 2012, my neighbor, Wayne Morrison died. My son, Isaiah, mowed the lawn for the Morrisons. We tended their chickens when they were away. They provided the invitations for my daughter’s wedding.
Wayne was a printer, but not just any printer. He was a walking antique. When Wayne walked the street of our small village, he looked like a page out of the history books that he printed. The presses in his shop were old when Teddy Roosevelt was president.
Wayne spent seven of his youthful years apprenticing under a master printer. That apprenticeship led him to a life-long vocation of putting thoughts, ideas, and history on the printed page.
When Wayne went to be with his Creator, I shared that information with the young men (seniors in high school) that work for me. They didn’t know him.
You need to understand that I live in a village of 442 residents. The print shop that Wayne operated was opened in 1815. His was the sixth generation of operation. He worked his trade here for 41 years. He loved his work, and delighted to demonstrate his trade to any who would take an interest. He wanted to teach someone else.
But the youth of our community missed out on Wayne. They didn’t know him. They will never have the benefit of his wisdom or experience. The educational system to which they are subjected is disconnected from providing actual life skills. The skilled laborers, craftsmen, and even professionals, both active and retired, are not available to our youths. Not only do these young people miss out on the vocational training that these folks have to offer, but also the wisdom, experience, and practical life skills that are stored up in them.
Rest in peace,Wayne. We will miss you. Our youth will never know what they have missed.
Mark…this is great! I am so thankful we were able to meet Wayne.