Most people are used to throwing away anything that breaks. Years ago, the neighboring city had regular days where people within the city limits could sit stuff out on the curb for trash pickup. Furniture, radios, and televisions were all thrown away. It is said that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. In one particular case, it was definitely true because my best friend’s grandfather was certainly a collector.

The man had a knack for being able to fix anything. The best part about it for me was that he was willing to share his knowledge. When I expressed interest in learning how to fix things, sometimes he would spend hours with me, teaching me how to fix them. This happened in the days before the internet got popular. The only thing there was to rely on back then was books, magazines, and the expertise of people that knew what they were doing.

Learning to fix things at an early age made me decide to go to vocational school during high school to get more hands-on training. There, I gained even more experience, skills, and knowledge. Between the mentorship from my friend’s grandfather and vocational school, I became confident in my own abilities. Years later, I was not afraid to attempt to fix things on my own. When I did, it added further to my confidence. It all started when someone took enough interest to share what they could. For that, I will always be grateful.

Today, the internet is filled videos and articles of people doing something similar. If you have something that will add value to another, please find a way to share your knowledge and skills with the rest of us. Years down the road, it may be well remembered!