The Ox - Portrait of a Master Woodworker

[@DaileyWoodworks]

No one is a greater philosopher than an elderly craftsman. I love gleaning wisdom from gentlemen such as this

[@TheClBlues]

I don't know why I haven't found this film before… This man is spreading respect, life and humanity all around him. How can such important people like he is not be heard by the whole world ? Thanks, many thanks from France !

[@trcmf]

This is pure perfection except for one small detail; it wasn’t long enough. I could have watched this for hours. So much insight from this man. I love the old school woodworking and the time given to the kids and veterans.

[@dennisoshea4906]

I'm 70 years old and have been a woodworker most of my life And to this day when I finish a project it still brings a smile to my face.Thank you for those words they have been in my head for a lifetime but I have never spoken them It's grand to hear someone speak them and most of all feel them.The best part of the video for me was the smile on the young man's face who turned the bowl priceless .I have had young people in my shop building picture frames bird houses chairs etc the smiles on there faces and enthusiasm can become addictive very quickly Again Thank You

[@bloodyhands]

I'm so glad i got to go to school there and learn from Eric himself. Changed my life as a teen.

[@blueoxmillworks]

I'm so glad... all of you Guys and Gals changed my life forever in the very best way..... Eric

[@tigbitsss1133]

His reference to bending the coil was heart breaking! What an inspiring hero

[@lbhunter6341]

I saw this film when it was new and I thought then that it was poignant and inspiring. It catapulted me on a quest to build with my hands...I now design and build furniture and furnishings using nothing but hand tools...the satisfaction is indescribable...thank you Mr Ben Proudfoot and Mr Eric Hollenbeck. You've made "the ringin in my ears a little quieter."

[@billsutherland2128]

Eric, I am a combat wounded Veteran, and you give us broken souls a ray of hope! Thanks a lot, bill

[@BariumCobaltNitrog3n]

I am one of those broken kids. My parents and all my schools gave up on me. I graduated from high school while in Juvenile Hall. I got a job as a bike messenger and after 3 years I "moved inside" a graphic arts shop. I printed in a darkroom for 18 years until they went extinct. Now I'm a Journeyman electrician and I take my shower after my shift. I love wood too and want to make more things out of it. Great documentary. I want a shop in the woods like this.

[@davee8659]

You may consider making something a little challenging, small, useful and beautiful. I recommend you Google "fine woodworking sturdy footstool weekend project". This was my first real project many years ago and it continues to draw admiration. I still love to look at it in our kitchen and it is used every day. For reasons similar to what you have said above, I needed something real and all of my own to engage in and woodworking does that for me in a way nothing else does. Thanks for your honesty and I wish you the best of luck - Dave, Sydney Aust

[@blueoxvillage]

Proud of your success. Thank you for sharing your story with us. Please come to Blue Ox and take some woodworking classes with us, and while you are here you can teach some workshops on printing in the dark room! We have one :) nothing is extinct at Blue Ox. ~ From Eric's Daughter Cara

[@blueoxvillage]

What a great idea Dave, thank you for sharing. We couldn't agree more. Those kinds of projects are found in our house too. 'a little challenging, useful and beautiful' that's just perfect. ~ From Eric's Daughter Cara

[@BariumCobaltNitrog3n]

Dave E So I took your advice and since I love the idea of modifying things to make them better and more personal, I took a tape measure that someone gave me and made a new case for it out of walnut. I took out the tape and spring mechanism and using the dimensions of the plastic case, made a nice case that feels good in my hand and works great. It's got flaws so I'm going to make another one just like it to try to improve my skills with the chisel and use more precise measurements. Trying to stuff the spring wound tape was very challenging, it's small, useful and after some boiled linseed oil and paste wax, it looks nice.

[@BariumCobaltNitrog3n]

Cara I'm just down the road a bit in the bay area. I'd love some info on the classes, and would enjoy teaching anyone that wants to learn more about darkroom printing and film processing. I'm at gadgetwhore2 at gmail dot com

[@MarcSchaefermeyer]

"They're doers not sitters"! Best line ever!

[@elams1894]

Throw in the "jobs that you need to take a shower at the end of the day". The greatest hair I've seen in a long time aside, this man truly is an Ox, on multiple levels. Bravo to all involved!

[@blueoxvillage]

elams1894 that's about the best compliment, I will share it with my dad! We all love his hair too :) Thank you! Cara (Eric's daughter)

[@colinwhitehurst6751]

YES! So glad those kids got to meet him and hear him say something like that. He's seeing things no one else does.

[@jimdavis8391]

They're do'ers not bull-sitters.

[@Specialized61]

My uncle was a Marine and did two tours in Nam in 65-66. God bless you. You are a woodworking Master.

[@sullivanspapa1505]

Correction: IS a Marine!

[@blueoxmillworks]

And always will be! 101st Air Borne here and I'll take it to the grave. Eric

[@cybrpypr]

We in America need these schools all across this country. I 1000% back this. This Vietnam Veteran has found peace for his demons and wants to teach the children his trade.

[@Artoniz88]

In my humble opinion, the whole world needs it though. Best wishes from sweden.

[@intellektualblackman5727]

What trade? Killing babies?

[@tjtinner]

I see you're enjoying the freedom to blabber your bullshit thanks to his sacrifice. STFU ignorant ass!

[@Artoniz88]

I for one despise wars and violence. However, the real world is quite different from what one would want it to be. What I personally think is, that the world needs this type of schools. Working with your hands and martial arts saved me early on. And by "saved", Im referring to the mentality both MA and (in my case) woodworking pushes you towards. And of course, my short time in the military (10 months of national service) helped me alot to. I truly don't need a lecture about how the world works, it's just that it would take atleast thrice as long to give a full answer... Take care!

[@blueoxvillage]

Thank you ArtonizPN, we agree with you. Many people have been saved in similar ways by finding a craft that sings to their soul. We hope to keep spreading that option for people far and wide! Thank you for your support! Best wishes. Cara (Eric's daughter)

[@MadMulberry]

What a beautiful spirit he forged from a lifelong struggle. True heroism and grit.

[@thomashverring9484]

What an absolutely great and wonderful man!

[@vivhosking]

This was less about woodworking, and more about a broken man, finding his own paradise in a broken world. This was beautiful

[@lensil1640]

Wisdom comes with age This man is one of the wisest I have ever listened to. Wonderful wonderful man

[@DIV9NAMVET]

Welcome Home Brother ^5 Watching this video and listening to you ,I can relate to the traumas of that terrible War,being a front line Infantryman as well.It seems,we,who have gone through such incredible experiences,can only,truly,relate to each other.I too,took solice in my workman Automotive Technician for 43 years and I too,took great pride in my wok.I commend you for your care and trust in todays youth,including Veterans ,and I too,am a believer that todays youth ,just as in the past generations,have much to offer.God Bless and a long healthy life to you.

[@blueoxvillage]

Thank you Tom! I believe you are correct about relating to one another, I know my Dad reads all the comments here and they touch his heart. We are learning from Veterans who have reached out or participated in one way or another, that having other Veterans to talk to or relate with is so important. Very happy to hear that your trade was an outlet for you as well! May others be inspired by you. Blessings and thanks, ~Cara, Eric's daughter www.blueoxmill.com

[@blackswanprepping8827]

This is probably the best documentary I've seen so far. It is just so beautiful how kids that have been kicked out everywhere can find a place where they can genuinely create something and be genuinely appreciated for it. I need to meet this man.

[@PiefacePete46]

I agree totally... did you notice the sparkle in the eyes of those kids? Possibly for the first time, something has clicked in their lives. Fantastic!

[@richardbabin7309]

John Colvin

[@blueoxvillage]

You saw it John! Thank you. We see it too, it's the greatest reward! ~ Eric's Daughter Cara

[@blueoxvillage]

Please come to Eureka and meet him Bert. I can promise you will be glad you did. ~ Eric's Daughter Cara

[@ImprovisedSurvival]

I just discovered Sam Maloof's work, and then I found out he had passed. Meeting him would have been a game changer. Now I have watched this video and agree with you, Eric is definitely someone I would love to meet. I wish I could spend an entire year working with him.

[@mikeduernberger]

You are the Bob Ross of the woodworking world. Thank you for your service. You would be someone I would love to have a conversation with . Great videos and craftsmanship!

[@knownaigm]

Someone please put this man to writing a book. I would love more than anything to just sit down and listen to this man's thoughts for hours on end. He is a very very rare person; one of those people with with the ability to see things for what they truly are and relate them to others in profoundly simple words.

[@aaronthomas8834]

As a Marine Corps combat veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom that suffers 24/7 with PTSD, I also have come into woodworking as a means of therapy after I lost everything in 2009 because of PTSD. This guy is an incredible inspiration. I wish I could go and learn from him as part of a program through the VA. I like that he uses old belt driven, treadle/pedal driven machinery... Im a handtool guy myself and have built a treadle lathe a few months ago. If only this fellow were in Georgia.

[@terryosz8458]

I'm also a Marine veteran sir first thank you for your service and try to remember there is always someone who needs and loves you God Bless you and your family

[@Skulkx]

Brilliant documentary. I would LOVE to see more of his little Island - it's like one of my dreams come true...

[@arnoldemch9181]

Skulkx www.vintagemachinery.org. Here is the OX and more....

[@RonBudman]

Very well done. It left me encouraged at age 70 that there are still things to be done. You put into words the things that I feel. Thanks.

[@blueoxmillworks]

You go Ron, we still got it and IT"S simmered into a much finer stew. Eric

[@Stlforestproducts]

Our company stl forest products would not be doing what we do if not for Erice and Viviana. we started in Eureka calif. and now are south of St. Louis. working with Eric in wood will create a great joy in your heart. God Bless You Blue Ox Mill

[@adamlynch4607]

This is such an inspiring video. Must be the 5 time I've watched it. I to scrapped my way through school and never fitted it. Yet with a handful of old machines and a few hand tools I now have my own great shop. Keep teaching the kids that the system say are dis functional they are the future of society.

[@womandela7225]

The system is dysfunctional. And woodworking/shop needs to be taught in school. Plus cooking, sewing, and dancing...etc. Schools don't teach anything important anymore.

[@GriffinBenchmark]

This is one of the most powerful videos I've ever seen. I wish with all my heart that I could shake this gentlemans hand and thank him personally for his service then AND now. May God bless his soul!

[@blueoxvillage]

Griffin thank you so much for your words. They means so much more than you can know. I know my dad would like to shake your hand. (from Eric's daughter Cara)

[@HughMcNeill]

love Eric's honesty. what a wonderful story, heart felt and beautiful...

[@MrTallman83]

I live down the street from there! Erik and Viv are two of the nicest, most soulful people I've ever met! I'm so glad this is on KZbin now!

[@blueoxvillage]

I couldn't agree with you more Thomas! Thank you for your words about my parents, it means so much. From daughter Cara

[@phillipyeager3176]

God bless, Cara. This brought a tear to this old Marine's face. I will be your dad's brother forever.

[@crazymanmichael8386]

i am also a viet nam infantry veteran(66-69) with ptsd and his ever so succinct description of his journey helped me understand my own somewhat parallel yet highly convoluted life better than uncounted hours of therapy ever did. the fact that his story was told in such a beautiful manner was a welcome bonus.

[@caraviana]

crazymanmichael The best to you my friend, and Welcome Home. Eric

[@InformationIsTheEdge]

Thanks for taking care of us. Thank you for your service.

[@JonDunnmusician]

@@InformationIsTheEdge God Bless YOU

[@sirkeibner1270]

Wow i just had a 10 minut chill running down my back ,,,thank you very much for sharing your depest inner feelings . My name is sirk eibner , eibner comes from eibe thats the yew tree ..my grandfather was a carpenter and my dad in his last 10 years as well. I ran away from that for 34 years ,but halfe a year ago i couldent resist the drive in my blood to the woodworking . I dident fit into the regular life ,i droped out of school and stoped as well my aprentership as a cook , hanged around the world . Then i came to spain where the clocks run slower ,i found myself here ,learnt sailing ,kitesurfing ,and now im only working in my littel shop on the boat and on land . I have a stong feeling my father and grandfather are always right behind me watching over my shoulder . Well anyway i wished i cozld have seen this 20 years ago ,when i lived in minnesota and dident know what to do exccept making trouble . You have all my respect Mr. I hope you could find the time to look at my facebook page sirk eibner woodworker on a boat . i wish you all the best blue ox

[@blueoxvillage]

Thank you Sirk! I love hearing your story, and I can relate to your words about the drive in your blood calling you back to the craft. Blessings to you for finding things that bring you joy. If you are ever in California come tour Blue Ox! ~Cara, Eric's daughter www.blueoxmill.com/index.html

[@arnoldemch9181]

What a wonderful story. I call it peering into the dark looking glass. The A-10 was my savior, my ticket home, my youth. But now I work building cabinets and I work hard. No one understands why I work so hard and few would understand. Working with wood, one creates a thing of passive beauty. But it also allows many of us to sleep at night while averting *THOSE* dreams! Its rare for one of us to well up but this story did it. Please allow hollywood to make a documentary of this. One production can do so much more than hours of therapy and it can help us all FINALLY come home!

[@vigilante004]

Hang tight buddy! God Bless You.

[@numkie]

Best thing i've ever seen. This guy should be a speaker.

[@blueoxvillage]

Thank you numkie. I've often said the same :) ~ From Eric's Daughter Cara

[@Mustbefate]

Even though I am not a vet, I can relate to Eric's story. For those of us who "get lost" into our craft, we all have our own stories. Our feelings and emotions get transpired into the art we create. Woodworking is more than that. In fact the word. 'working' needs to be removed. It should be called, 'woodcrafting' or 'wood therapy'. I myself am particularly bonded with nature. It's the best of both worlds for me. I get to immerse myself in her beauty while strolling through the woods and at the same time, I am looking for my next piece to bring back home to work on. Thank you Eric for sharing some of your story, but most of all giving back to the community and the children who will deeply benefit from your generosity.

[@blueoxvillage]

William this is beautiful and I know my Dad and all of us feel the very same way you describe! I'm happy to know you have this same feeling, of getting lost and of putting yourself into the pieces you create, I feel the same and I know my dad does. Thank you for your words and your 'work' - I agree wood therapy is more accurate! From Eric's daughter Cara

[@xmaswitguns]

Another man like you taught me my trade;. now I can provide for my family. That is an incredible blessing! Men like you are changing lives for generations.

[@jmdec20]

The wonderful redwoods can take all the stress away. Been there across the Golden Gate and hiked it onto Stinson Beach. Hear our earth and know what she can do to care for you and reanchor you. My son and a group of 'city' kids went on a major hike in the Utah Mountains, camped and jumped off a cliff into a pool. He came home dubbed "commando". He over came fear, found little caves used for native american souls to reclaim themselves too. He changed from the inside. Like Blue Ox says. He truly owned his connection to our living earth. He can go there again anytime....in his heart and in any place in America find that soul restoration. From star to earth...he has it now.

[@jmdec20]

Redwoods come from Mu. Saved where they are from earth plate shifting to their safe place at Muir Woods. They grow from the root of other trees, all connected to a mother tree.

[@ManyInterestsLittleTime]

Humboldt is about 250 miles north of SF. There are so many redwoods there that people forget it exists. But I get what you’re saying.

[@jmdec20]

Thanks. I sure you do know. It's one of my 'happy places' and I revist it in my mind to rebalance.@@ManyInterestsLittleTime

[@jmdec20]

Molly, Find the book, (Thrift books site helps) "Finding the Mother Tree" Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest. by Suzanne Simard Happy Holiday Season.@@ManyInterestsLittleTime

[@MrGottmusik]

What a wonderful little gem of a video. If anyone is looking at this I sincerely hope you'll take the fact 10 minutes and watch it. It's really a special sort of story.

[@kennylakits4093]

Loved this Video, One of the many great people who help build this country..... To help Troubled Children and Vets is a wonderful thing.... Will make sure I stop by this place when in the area to shake his hand...

[@jamesbaldwin9969]

I never thought a film about woodworking could make me cry. I helped me understand how woodworking has helped me as well. When you're different than everyone else and misunderstood, woodworking somehow bridges the gap. Thank you Eric for your service. What a way to give back. God bless you.

[@blueoxmillworks]

Thank you... I just had my 72nd Birthday Tuesday and I'm still doing it ... But I'm telling everyone that I'm 70... it's my birthday and I can choose to be what ever I want!! Eric

[@mynameisHOPKIRK]

Well, that was a fantastic -could have watched it all day long- documentary... most people often wonder what life is all about (if not all)... and this thought provoking little gem goes some way in explaining that, long may you continue Eric!

[@blueoxvillage]

Perfectly said. Thank you. ~ From Eric's Daughter Cara

[@stevencoons450]

Wow! We need more teachers like this guy...He's so right...."they're not bad kids they just don't like to sit. Thank you Mr. Proudfoot.

[@KharmenSense]

This is an inspirational piece about a true American Icon that isn't known to anybody but the ones he has helped. We all know someone like that in our lives and are better people because of said people. The Ox should be required viewing in school to teach us about the qualities that made America as well as the Human Race great.

[@blueoxvillage]

Wow Shawn, thank you for your words. I couldn't agree with you more. If I wasn't lucky enough to grow up at Blue Ox, I never would have learned about any of this. We hadn't thought of the video being in schools! This is brilliant! I'm going to brainstorm how to get it out there. Thank you! ~from Eric's daughter Cara

[@phillipyeager3176]

Terrific idea. What a tribute to your pop.

[@papatinpan]

Goosebumps. I was expecting to see another documentary of a Hipster poser spewing his efforts to revive a "lost art", but it was an Old School Daddy, much like my Dad & the other mentors who guided me on my path.

[@KoolFJ40]

He could make a living just narrating. He has one of those voices that just makes you comfortable. Well done video...

[@musamor75]

Thank you so much for posting this most moving human story. Eric has a great inner depth and beauty of soul that is so rare ( and has always been). He must be a true inspiration to many an aspiring woodworker. It must be very rewarding to live in those most beautiful parts of the planet, and Eric does it justice. I'm most moved by this documentary. All the best my good friend. Although I live in Europe -where things are going downhill at a breakneck pace- I'd love to look you up some day. Thirty four years of woodwork for me, and many to come for both of us I hope!

[@Shirley0850]

He has a wonderful soul and an amazing outlook. I would have liked to hear more.

[@jaywood8296]

I lived in the area, & ordered stuff from them in the '70s- gable end louver vents is one.

[@Marrio49]

You brought a tear to my eyes with your story. Welcome home brother and you do fit in with people like myself. The Nam 1969. I am a fellow woodworker and furniture builder for over 50 years. We are brothers who share common experiences and monsters from the past. Live on and may The Lord be with you until He calls us home. Just underwent triple bypass surgery a little over a month ago. Close call. Be well brother

[@blueoxmillworks]

"Welcom home brother"... it took 40 years befor someone said that to me, thank you from someonr who walked a mile in my boots.... Eric

[@matthewlacroix4131]

...this just happens to be the most powerful thing I've ever come across. Mr Hollenbeck, as a veteran myself - your work and words have struck a chord with me - if you ever read this, I'd like to thank you for both your profound insight and perspective. As a fellow veteran I'd like to thank you and the work that you are (hopefully) continuing to do. I would also like to add that you sir, should be considered a national treasure.

[@rvmj2000]

"When you make something. When you go through the process with all the steps, and at the end you have a finished product that you made with your own hands, out of your own mind that is your own design, it's a reflection of your soul." -Eric Hollenbeck This line is exactly how I feel. Even when i get the plans from somewhere else, I still add my own touches and I feel a small ovation of accomplishment. I am very new to woodworking , but I am grateful to come across such genuine souls in such a short time. Thanks for this video.

[@shauncraghead4165]

Man.... honestly, what the heck?! A whole 10 minute? Really! I could sit and watch a 3 hour documentary of this. This man, wow.... absolute treasure. Speak with so much wisdom, from experience of his life, and what he has been through. Beautiful.

[@16111945]

Mr. Eric Hollenbeck, I have just watched the most moving and inspirational talk by anyone, and I am 73 years of age. Respect to you SIR.

[@blueoxmillworks]

Thank you from a 71 year old Eric

[@PedroMartinez-nl1gr]

I could not fishing the full video, not because I did not like it, simply chocked me up. I am an square peg in a round world. After my time in the service, USMC, I came back to a world that did not wanted me around. I got so sick and tire of people telling me "thank you for your service", yet NO ONE offered me a job, or a chance in life. Instead of complaining I left the US, in pursuit of "something", haven't find it yet. From one square peg to another I truly mean it Thank you, for helping those that need a hand, I only wish I would have learn of you so many years ago. Semper Fi

[@bambooman4446]

Thank you for the beautiful documentary! People like this is what powers this world!

[@ninjasd1]

It is highly unlikely that there will be another generation of men like this one. thanks for uploading !

[@thorloki29]

Thank you Eric for sharing something so special to all of us.

[@Titan12328]

There's nothing more rewarding than making something with your own two hands then teaching someone else how it's done and passing if forward.

[@donaldnewton4947]

Found this surfing woodworkers and all I can say is WOW. What a craftsman, but more than that, what a deeply spiritual journey into the soul of a man. God bless Eric Hollenbeck and thank you Ben Proudfoot for such a tremendous experience.

[@pagnicinematography]

Well that was really powerful. My only critcism is that it wasn't four hours long.

[@oldmanfromscenetwentyfour8164]

I would have gladly sat through a four hour documentary about this man and all he's lived through and accomplished.

[@mkh171]

mm.

[@blueoxvillage]

Thank you Ross! I couldn't agree more. We hope to one day make a full length one. ~ From Eric's Daughter Cara

[@danceswithstone]

Cara / BlueOx, Let today be that day. Please! I watched this video several years ago and then ran across it today... It had the same power today as before and once again, I'm left wanting to know more... I hope the years are continuing to treat your father well.

[@alohi79]

Agreed.

[@jsptg75]

Just when you think the world is overrun with ugly you fine this wonderful film that reminds us of what we can accomplish. Thank you for your amazing life.

[@jmdec20]

I get the same energy signature from Perma Culture videos, esp. Shepherd from Wisconsin, a good one. Or watching them rebuild homes in the desserts of Egypt and others from their own clay bricks and the way ancient's air conditioned these homes, collected water etc. The 'doing' is where you feel that 'I can do it' determination w. engineers and scientists reaffirming the archeological wisdom. Just beautiful, or refacing and developing concrete block neighborhoods with cultural artisian construction which draws financing from the positive energy invoved I think there is one video in France, which totally revamped a neighbor hood to smaller shops, while supporting housing for displaced temporarily and rehoming them back into the finished neighborhoods w. pride of ownership and community restored to them. The result is affirmation of human art, entrepreneurship and collective creativity. Garden growth and spaces, Smaller business upgrades. Goodbye, concrete and strip malls. Just beautiful.

[@richardchapple1607]

EXCELLENT VIDEO, STANDING OVATION BRAVO. THANK YOU for sharing this Man's story. Very Inspiring

[@MrAnimal1971]

I have watched this multiple times and I keep coming back to this because it is so inspiring.

[@blueoxvillage]

Thank you! We are so very happy that it is bringing inspiration! Your words are appreciated. ~ from Eric's daughter Cara

[@keenaheaton8853]

I have a lot in common with this guy. Veteran of Afghanistan and Iraq, and I have started my own woodworking and metalworking business just last year, and his "bent" description really hit home for me. I'd love to meet this man and have a long talk in those redwoods, and discuss war, woodworking, and life in general. Beatifully produced!

[@johnm.robertssr.2953]

Me and my whole family for generations have been the one that take a shower when we get home . GOD bless all the Craftsman in the world because they will keep the world going

[@KatherineSummers1]

Thought-provoking and quite true. Eric is right about the 'bent spring' and right about creating things with your own hands. Thank you!

[@deniseward8192]

A wonderful man ,these people need you ,you give time and love to everyone,l love your voice , it’s so soothing ,thank you ,

[@kenyork1107]

Hello Blue Ox , So glad I found you and watching you on the Magnolia channel . Growing up my dad would not spend much time with me , he told his brothers I was to dumb to learn anything , he probably was right I quit school, but I did go back and get my diploma . After I got out I couldn't find a job so I joined the Navy . That didn't work out . I have had a lot of different jobs in my life , I'm 72 now and I didn't master any . I thank this is great what yall are doing with yalls business and with kids . I would love to visit Eric and yalls business , but don't see how I can , but I bet it's awesome I love our machinery . We'll lots of luck and thanks for all yall are doing 👍.

[@tommerchant8900]

So wonderful. Love my shop tiny as it is, also. And yeah, shower in the evening.

[@dude157]

I need to hear more of this guy's story and see more of his craft!

[@blueoxvillage]

I agree Sam! We are hoping to one day have a full length documentary made about my Dad and Blue Ox! ~ from Eric's daughter Cara

[@TheFloorBoys]

Had me glued to the screen up until the very end. Awesome story and even better arrangement and cinematography. I thoroughly enjoyed this.

[@stephenwatson1873]

We need more videos of this guy please, he is inspirational beyond doubt, thank you

[@joer5627]

As an old guy, it is rare when something gets to me. I’m sitting on the back steps with a lot of dust in my eyes. I am sorry for the pain you have carried these so many years. I am thankful to know you were able to use it for something so good. May you be blessed.

[@Esuper1]

Gave me chills. I never went to war anywhere but went through life that was harsh. Everything he said rings true for me with completely different experience than him. Understood and felt everything he said. Amazing what you will find on the web.

[@perryingto]

Im also 65 and Nam vet and man can I identify with what you have said,excellent Perry

[@steveadkisson2921]

The world should “fit” this man not the other way round. This is beyond inspiring......thank you, thank you for this film.

[@marcelpalm9166]

That is excellent. No further words necessary. Thank you for this impressive pictures.

[@jmccracken491]

Wow, I am sitting here amazed about what this man has accomplished in life. So few ever do what he has done but most of us wish would have. Thank you sir and may The Lord deeply bless you.

[@blueoxmillworks]

Thank you for your kind words... Eric

[@Finite-Tuning]

This is perhaps the best video I've seen here on KZbin. I'm just sorry it took me so long to find it.

[@BLAZZANME]

I have no words to express the relief this short video has brought me. Having left society and lived alone going on three years now I feel a step closer towards answering my internal question of what can I do to help. Thank you Che Merrill 13 yr mason and 20 yr woodworking student

[@blueoxmillworks]

Thank You Ghe for your kind words... Eric 70 year student of Life but not ready to graduate yet....

[@stevenanthony9659]

I love this old timer! More people like him would be a benefit to our society for sure.

[@Zerlono1]

Damn that was beautiful.....almost made me shed a tear, definitely gave me chills, and I wouldn't consider myself a very emotionally sensitive guy

[@zeldanrj3]

Bravo!! BRAVO!!! Ben did an amazing job. Need this movie longer than 10 min. You Sir, have such a calming and beautiful voice xoxoxo

[@ellisc.foleyjr9778]

Kudos on all that you do Eric, thanks for sharing your shop, your mind, your heart. it showed ! and what you do for the kids etc. As a Vet I feel your bond. God Bless.

[@blueoxmillworks]

Thank You... Eric

[@blueoxmillworks]

Welcome home.... it took 45 years for somebody to say that to me so I don't miss a chance .... Eric

[@Gen.NowallJackson]

Absolutely incredible! I got chills throughout the whole documentary.

[@davidhumber47]

You're a good man Eric. Thank you for your service...Then & Now. God bless you.

[@scottatutube1]

Blessings on you! Wonderful that you can both do beautiful work and teach and inspire the kids.

[@chriswilson7499]

Thanks. Best video I have seen in a long time. I wish I had the money/resource to have a shop to share my wood working skills with today's kids.

[@blueoxvillage]

Yes Chris! The more we can share the craft the better, even just with one person. ~Cara, Eric's daughter www.blueoxmill.com

[@damianfreeman4326]

wow what a guy god bless him and his wonderful workshop

[@TrustinTimber]

Love what you're doing Eric. There are a lot of us doers out there that don't belong in stores. Hearing your story is heart warming. It took me many years to remember my pride comes from making but now that I've found it I'm not going to forget again. I'm over showering in the morning:) Time to start showering at night:) Great documentary Ben.

[@blueoxvillage]

YES! Thank you Trustin! May you inspire this remembrance of pride in many others!! Well done. ~Cara, Eric's daughter www.blueoxmill.com

[@wintersnot]

Interesting short doc. Thanks for the glimpse, Ben.

[@Chris-iu5ol]

Almost 30 years been in youthwork and social work. GOOD ON YA MATE!

[@blueoxvillage]

And GOOD ON YOU Chris! Thank you for your service to our children!

[@xavierb4328]

What a wise man! ! Deep words , touched my soul. Gracias

[@blueoxvillage]

Thank you Ben!! We are so happy it is touching people. ~Cara, Eric's daughter www.blueoxmill.com

[@Frikkie5302]

Powerful message from a man who has found his inner peace. Must be so rewarding to invest in the youth of our time. Thanks for posting!

[@paulotero7188]

You are very special inspirational person. You have already conquered whether or not that spring as you say will never come back.

[@diane9247]

A remarkable video about a very wise man!

[@toonybrain]

“They’re just doers, not sitters.” Insightful and wise.

[@davee8659]

Wow - some gentle wisdom here earned over many difficult years. What an inspiration and a joy to watch. I am of the conviction that if everyone learned to create things with their hands - through woodworking or otherwise, we would have a world with a lot more truly fulfilled people and a lot less anxiety. Like many of us and for different reasons, I too am a coiled spring that got bent in my teens and now in middle age hasn't quite fully returned. For me, woodworking has been a fantastic way to find a kind of peace and fulfillment in a way I've never quite been able to achieve doing anything else. Many thanks for this short but profoundly powerful piece. Dave, Australia

[@h.e.pennypacker2037]

An awesome story and God bless you Sir!

[@blueoxvillage]

Thank you H.E. your support is appreciated! ~Cara, Eric's daughter www.blueoxmill.com

[@1shanehoward1975]

who are the 22 miserable people that gave this a thumbs down. Ox is the man.

[@tomrevere9091]

Now there are 25 people who most likely kick puppies.

[@horshamforgehorshamforge2649]

And now 82, it's a sad, sad world we are turning into................

[@christophercastor6666]

They must be Pipeline Welders.... 😂 joking. Kind of...

[@Jacksterific]

The story rings true on so many levels. Quite thought provoking.