Akin to_ The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Tony Robbins, Oli Hille, Getting Things Done Making a Masterpiece of Your Life_ The Craftsman's Way of the Art & Science of Skillful Living ( PDFDrive )

Making
a Masterpiece of Your Life
The Craftsman's Way of the Art & Science of

Skillful Living
by
Charles P. Collins

Book 6 in the LIFECRAFT collection

www.Amazon.com/dp/B00AEXED5G
www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece
www.twitter.com/LifeMasterpiece

An Amazon #1 Best Seller
CONTENTS
Foreword by the Author
The Origin of LIFECRAFT

Part 1: The Principles
Life As A Craft
The Practice of Craftsmanship
The Four Phases of Living
The Five Elements

Part 2: The Material

Making a Masterpiece of Your Life
Masterpiece Element 1: Family Heritage
Masterpiece Element 2: Family Management
Masterpiece Element 3: Family & Personal Finance
Masterpiece Element 4: The Human Being
Masterpiece Element 5: Tools for Living
The Tool Box
Glossary

Author Biography

Foreword by the Author For each new generation no mission is more
important, no adventure more arduous and rewarding, than the search for one's
place in the world and life's enduring values. To turn a vision of oneself into a
tangible result requires commitment, skills, and the right tools for the job. Our
goal is to expose you to the ancient practice of craftsmanship and inspire you
into Making a Masterpiece of Your Life. Welcome to The Craftsman's Way of
the Art and Science of Skillful Living.

As a system Making a Masterpiece of Your Life is designed to organize - in
one convenient place - all the bits and pieces of "wisdom" about life that you
will find scattered about in books, on tapes, at seminars, and "advice" from
parents, relatives, and friends. It is flexible and practical to meet the needs of the
task at hand.

As a practice Making a Masterpiece of Your Life is designed to help you
balance the distinct but interconnected "Five Elements" of life as an individual,
and as a member of the families we all belong to.

Making a Masterpiece of Your Life is about an ancient quality so easily missed
in a world of constant distractions. The ancient quality is the practice of
craftsmanship. Craftsmanship is one of the highest qualities revered by the
human spirit. It is a quality understood by all cultures regardless of language,
religious belief or period in time. Craftsmanship endures long after one has
traveled the journey of life. It is immortal. It is a universal value both human and
divine which speaks for itself. Its presence is self evident the moment one comes
into contact with it; whether through the superior work of a craftsperson, or the
life of one who conducts himself or herself as a true craftsperson. Craftsmanship
is the foundation upon which the craft of life is built.

Making a Masterpiece of Your Life - The Craftsman's Way of the Art &
Science of Skillful Living is an art and a science dedicated to; empowering
ourselves and each generation to craft a masterpiece of our lives. To learn more
visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

Charles P. Collins (CP Collins) cpcollins@live.com
The Origin of LIFECRAFT

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I —
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference."
The Road Not Taken
--Robert Frost
Writer, Craftsman
Life is an ancient journey. For some, it is a journey measured by the time that
passes between the twin events of birth and death. For others, it is a timeless,
never ending road into eternity. However long, whether finite or infinite, at one
time or another many of us have wondered what to make of our lives.

For a lot of people life was never taught as a -- "take it apart and put it back
together" system of identifiable parts. Each one fitting into the big well oiled
machinery of the universe. Life is just experienced - like a balancing act. From
balancing the checkbook to balancing the spiritual and emotional needs of
ourselves and the lives of those around us.

At other times, life can be like searching through the curiosities hanging on the
racks of a vintage clothing store. Somewhere among bits and pieces handed
down through the generations, one might find a treasure. In truth however, much
is old and outdated. Yet we continue to search and sort and look for the priceless
heirloom worth safeguarding for the next generation.

Looking back from our vantage point across time as adults, many of us realize
that our parents didn't have a "system" for teaching us life any more than we
have one for ourselves and our children. It is no surprise then that a great many
of us find ourselves flying through life by the seat of our pants. We have learned
that to successfully navigate the journey of life requires the application of
learned skills. It is rarely the result of blind luck. But which skills exactly?

What will you say one day when the next generation asks: "What is life all
about?" Will you say; "It's about getting a good education, working hard and
making money to buy things to make a comfortable life? Will you say; "It's all
about being a good Human Being (in a dog-eat—dog world)", or "It's about
God's plan". Or will you say something else? How would you answer the
question: "What is life"? Which skills would you teach the next generation?
What is the curriculum?
A Life Curriculum Like a school curriculum, Making a Masterpiece of Your

Life is an organizing structure to guide anyone to approach the subject of life -
the physical, mental, and spiritual experiences that constitute a Human Being's
existence; particularly the interval of time between birth and death on earth - as
an integrated practice. Our framework is a structure upon which a well rounded
life skills education can be built by selecting specific topics of interest - from
grooming and personal hygiene, to managing one's emotions and setting goals
for life.

For years, we searched high and low through books and other works by
qualified teachers and practitioners of essential life topics and distilled each
topic down to one page (more or less) in order to "introduce" the topic. Then we
categorized them all into one of 'Five Elements' for easy reference. Further
study on each topic can be done by reading and studying the more complete
works on each subject as one requires.
The Craftsman's Way of the Art & Science of Skillful Living

Part 1: The Principles

" . . . there are certain basic elements in common use among the wide range
of crafts practiced by humankind. (Among them), there is a system of
principles and methods employed in the preparation and use of the materials
of the craft, the performance of the activities which make up the craft, and the
equipment, instruments or tools used in the practice of the craft."
--Life As A Craft

Life As A Craft

"Which one of us dares draw a harsh frontier between craft, art and life?"
--Gilbert M. Grosvenor
Cabinet Maker & Book Editor
To practice the whole of life as a craft the way a craftsperson mindfully
practices a trade like "textile weaving" or "woodworking," requires that the
myriad activities of life be systematically organized, managed, taught and
learned in a manner similar to the ways in which we organize, manage, teach and
learn our trades, occupations and professions. So we asked; "How do we
organize, manage, teach and learn our trades and professions?"

For thousands of years humankind has practiced countless trades and
occupations from carpentry and stone masonry to the bakers art and computer
programming. Each successive generation of practitioners from the young
apprentice, to the skilled journeyman to master craftsman, has grown and
nurtured their crafts from simple beginnings into highly refined arts, and
sciences.

Over time, as each craft becomes more widely known and practiced, an
individual or group of persons arises to record, catalogue and preserve the "body
of knowledge" developed by practitioners of the craft. They labor to describe the
features and compare the diverse techniques, methods, procedures, and tools,
(not to mention jealously guarded secrets) of the craft as it is practiced and
evolves from place to place and over time.

From this experience come the teachers. Individuals dedicated to the
preservation of the knowledge and development of the craft. Schools arise
wherein the systematically recorded practices are carefully taught, and the
knowledge and the skills of each apprentice are carefully measured and tested
for proficiency in each area of the craft.

At the appointed time, after years of hard work and study comes the
craftsperson's "journeywork" - the time to go into the world armed with the
knowledge and the skill to use the tools of the trade and to distinguish oneself as
a journeyman or journeywoman in the applied practice of craftsmanship.

Thus, the answer we found is; there are certain basic elements in common use
among the wide range of crafts practiced by humankind.
1. There is a distinguishing "body of knowledge" which defines and
differentiates each craft as a whole making it distinct from all others.
2. Often, we find the "body of knowledge" segmented into different
portions, sections or elements. The sum of the parts making up the whole.
These may be different historical time periods in the growth and
development of the craft, or sometimes a particular approach to the craft
by an individual or group composing "schools of practitioners" within the
craft.
3. There is a hierarchy to the "body of knowledge" from the simple
principles to the more complex usually dictating which portions of the
knowledge are appropriate for learning at each stage of development
starting with the apprentice (beginner), and moving onward to journeyman
& journeywoman (skilled practitioner), to master craftsperson (advanced
practitioner), to mentor (respected teacher).
4. There is a system of principles and methods employed in the preparation
and use of the materials of the craft, the performance of the activities
which make up the craft, and the equipment, instruments or tools used in
the practice of the craft.
5. There is a body of standards for measuring "craftsmanship" - the skillful
practice of the craft according to principles often established and regulated
by a collective of practitioners called guilds, societies and associations.

Introduction to LIFECRAFT
LIFECRAFT -- like other crafts, is comprised of: 1. A distinguishing "body
of knowledge". Life as a 'learned craft' has an identifiable name -- LIFECRAFT,
and a defined structure comparatively based upon the existing and well known
structures of other trades, crafts and professions. LIFECRAFT knowledge deals
with the skills we can learn to apply to our physical, mental, and spiritual
experiences as Human Beings to live happy, balanced lives.
2. The LIFECRAFT "body of knowledge" is divided into five distinct
components we call: The Five Elements. Each Element is a distinct vital
part of the craft of life as a whole. Within each Element are contained
many individual life skills subjects or topics. The objective of a
LIFECRAFT practitioner is to achieve incremental excellence over time in
all of the Five Elements. While it will take a lifetime to master
LIFECRAFT, you will see results the moment you begin to practice.
3. The hierarchy of knowledge in LIFECRAFT is learned progressively
over Four Phases of Living. This is the physical time frame in which the
craft will be studied and practiced. Similar to the average 4 calendar years
of study to acquire a college baccalaureate, LIFECRAFT is studied and
practiced across 4 distinct periods of time. Some periods or Phases lasting
up to two decades more or less.
4. Like schools, colleges and universities, the system of principles and
methods employed in LIFECRAFT are established upon a particular
philosophical foundation which governs the study and practice of the skills
to be acquired. LIFECRAFT is built on the foundation of craftsmanship -
examples of which are found in a thousand variations from different
cultures all across the world.
5. Each of the "Five Elements" and the individual life skills subjects, must
adhere to a body of standards; (i.e.) personal, cultural, or a particular
philosophy or religion. A standard is a 'model' used to measure the quality
of your craftsmanship. It is the foundation that you will build your practice
of the craft of life upon. A true craftsperson will always use a true
standard. There is no room for substituting a false standard giving only the
"appearance" of craftsmanship. If the work is not done right, one day it
will be uncovered and the craftsperson will be discredited.

You will have to decide which standard(s) you will use to measure your
progress in LIFECRAFT and your practice of craftsmanship. Craftsmanship
performed to the highest standards endures. Workmanship of lowly standards
reveals itself eventually and does not endure. Your ultimate decision of which
standards you choose when you become a craftsperson of life, will set the
background for your everyday life, the results of your work, and your
relationship with the world around you.

While the Five Elements and the subjects contained within them can certainly
be learned and practiced without any reference to the idea of life as a craft, or
conducting oneself as a craftsperson, it is the applied practice of craftsmanship
which makes the LIFECRAFT approach unique.

LIFECRAFT is not purely an "intellectual science", nor simply an emotional or
intuitive expression of "life as art." LIFECRAFT recognizes the skill and beauty,
the art and science inherent in the practice of craftsmanship as the guiding
principle for modeling one's actions and the way in which one organizes and
manages the world within and without. LIFECRAFT is the Art & Science of
Skillful Living™.

Thus, for LIFECRAFT to be an applied system and not simply a quaint
metaphor, you must decide whether or not you seriously accept the basic
premise of LIFECRAFT -- the idea that; life can be practiced as a well defined
and managed craft. The goal being; "to craft a masterpiece of your life". To
learn more visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

The Practice of Craftsmanship
"I was there when he set the heavens in place, when he marked out the horizon on the face of the deep, when he established the clouds
above and fixed securely the fountains of the deep, when he gave the sea its boundary so the waters would not overstep his command,
and when he marked out the foundations of the earth. Then I was the craftsman at his side."
--Wisdom
The Book of Proverbs
Making a Masterpiece of Your Life is about an ancient quality so easily missed
living in today's world of constant distractions. The ancient quality is the
principle of craftsmanship. Craftsmanship is one of the highest qualities revered
by the human spirit since the beginning of recorded time. It is a quality
understood by all cultures regardless of language, religious belief or period in
time. Craftsmanship endures long after one has traveled the journey of life. It is
immortal. It is a universal value both human and divine which speaks for itself.
Its presence is self evident the moment one comes into contact with it, whether
through the superior work of a craftsperson, or the life of one who conducts
himself or herself as a true craftsperson.

Craftsmanship is the foundation upon which Making a Masterpiece of Your
Life is built. It is intended to teach ourselves and our children to value the
ancient and time tested quality of craftsmanship, and to cultivate the spirit of the
craftsperson in everything we do to empower our children with the skills to
make a masterpiece of their lives.

Craftsmanship can be studied and pursued by itself. One does not need to
practice life as a craft to appreciate or apply craftsmanship to any endeavor. One
could also "practice" life as a craft (i.e. using the Life Planner in this book) and
achieve results without ever having knowingly practiced craftsmanship.
However the greatest results will be achieved when you consciously apply the
principles of craftsmanship in your practice of the craft of life.

What Is Craftsmanship?
Craftsmanship is an attitude of mind. An attitude of mind which continually
strives for perfection. It is the skillful use and control of the tools of the craft and
mastery of the materials of the craft while taking care never to abuse either.
Craftsmanship reveals the best of the natural characteristics and charm of each
craft and enhances their appeal to the craftsperson and admirer alike. The point
at which craftsmanship becomes "art" might be described as "a moment in time"
when the creative spirit of the craftsperson is in complete harmony with the
perfection of skillful execution; the result of the craftsperson's attitude of mind.
This brings full pleasure not only from the creation; the finished work, but also
from the process; the manner in which it was done. It is a way of living.

What Is A Craftsperson?
The craftsperson is one who is concerned first and foremost with balance and
perfection. The craftsperson is the prime source of those fine things by which
life is enriched. The craftsperson is the guardian of the highest standard of
quality. Endurance in both design and function measure the skill of today's
craftsperson as it has in the past. The "complete" craftsperson is one who is
equally skilled in all the elements of their craft. Most are usually advanced in
their years, their skill and knowledge firmly rooted in long and broad experience.

Making a Masterpiece of Your Life is the practice of applying craftsmanship to
life - "the physical, mental, and spiritual experiences which constitute every
Human Being's existence." Making a Masterpiece of Your Life is the "art &
science of skillful living through craftsmanship" -- the selective application of
specific skills achieved through study, observation and practice. It is a
structured, systematic approach to managing your life and the life of your
family.

The Pursuit of Craftsmanship
Once you have committed to the view that life is a learned craft, you must
begin the process of becoming a craftsperson by committing to practice
craftsmanship in your life and your actions. To begin, review the definitions and
consider the meaning of 'craftsperson' and 'craftsmanship' found in the Glossary.

Understand what it is you are committing yourself to. Anchor craftsmanship
inside your mind, then open yourself to experience the works of superior
craftsmanship. All the books in the world cannot duplicate the experience of
direct contact with the fruits of superior craftsmanship; the works themselves.

Alone, and with friends and family, look at, touch, smell, taste and listen to the
works of superior craftsmanship which surround us. Experience them and talk
about them together. Describe what you see and feel the deeper you look at a
beautifully crafted automobile, an outstanding motion picture, an intricate piece
of jewelry, an inspired performance, or the ultimate masterpiece; a superbly
crafted life lived to its fullest and an inspiration to future generations of
practitioners.

The principle of this exercise is to become well acquainted with the difference
between true craftsmanship and imitation "fake" craftsmanship or worse ...
mediocre, indifferent workmanship. This is the foundation of life as a craft -
LIFECRAFT; to know what craftsmanship is, and what it isn't.

It is the knowledge, the acceptance and the application of craftsmanship which
will be the significant determining factor whether or not an individual's life will
be crafted (by him or herself and others,) into a unique, genuine work of art
beautifully displayed and cared for, or whether it will be just another assembly
line production model -- a cheap imitation look alike. Or worse, a rotting shell in
the junkyards of life.

Craftsmanship therefore, is not attained by reading these pages. It is attained
through action shared with everyone through the tangible evidence of craftwork.
Thus, the essence of the true craftsperson is in the pride of giving to the world "a
work which speaks for itself."

Seek out great works of craftsmanship and there you will find nestled among
the curves and the textures, in the aromas, in the colors, and the tones, lessons
prepared with painstaking care by great craftspeople, each one worth more than
10,000 words. It is there in the evidence of their work. The work speaks for itself
and reveals the invisible craftsperson. This is Making a Masterpiece of Your
Life. To learn more visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

"Neither talent without instruction, nor instruction
without talent can produce the perfect craftsman."
--Vitruvius
Architect and Engineer

The Four Phases of Living

"Masterworks is the time for polishing your life -- your "ultimate masterpiece."
--Charles P. Collins
Craftsman
Each of the 4 Phases of life as a craftsperson has a definite purpose. And, while
each Phase is independent, they must be taken together as a whole to live life
fully as a craftsperson. That is to say; skillfully. Each Phase has a defined
beginning and ending. Each has its own goals and objectives.

We can only offer you general guidelines, and not hard and fast laws. Each
person is free to make his or her own judgments regarding the particular
elements of each Phase. For example, exactly when one Phase ends and another
begins can only be determined by each individual as they measure their own life
according to the standard they live by as craftspeople. A woodworker does not
measure her readiness to proceed according to the standard of the metalworker.
Each proceeds according to his own natural rhythm.

Another point might be the goals and objectives of each Phase. These may have
to be modified as culture or circumstances may accelerate some Phases, and
slow others intentionally.

PHASE I: APPRENTICESHIP
Apprenticeship is defined as: "The specific period of time during which one
learns to comprehend the nature of the raw materials of life, and the skillful use
and application of the tools of the craft."

In many cultures, formal apprenticeship for most crafts, occupations and
professions begins at the dawn of adulthood about age 12-14, and continues on
into the early years of adulthood age 18-22. This can vary depending upon
certain situations and circumstances such as formal career or vocational training,
or other life responsibilities which may have to be taken up sooner than later in
some cases.

The important point about the Apprenticeship Phase is to clearly define the
curriculum; "what is to be learned." The truth is a great many of us never
complete the range of study and practice properly required of an Apprentice in
the craft of life. And for many of us for reasons beyond our control, find
ourselves feverishly trying to play "catch up" while we learn vital skills "on the
fly". A painful experience for all of us who have had to practice the craft of life
not fully prepared to meet the challenges.

Apply your energies to offer a young apprentice the best curriculum you can. A
well planned and laid out Apprenticeship will make a significant difference in
his and her future quality of life.

PHASE II: JOURNEYWORK
Journeywork comprises the many years of work performed after
Apprenticeship toward becoming a Master. More particularly, it is the time when
a craftsperson distinguishes him or herself by earning their way in life by their
craftwork. In other words, having learned to "stand on your own two feet." It is a
time lasting approximately twenty five years more or less.

There are many able bodied persons who go through life never having accepted
the Journeywork Phase. They drift in and out of dependence on one person or
institution or another, never fully being either willing or able to take
responsibility for their own existence. This does not include those who are truly
not able to care for themselves.

Those who consciously embrace their Journeywork will find it is a Phase filled
with wide ranging contrasts; famine and feast, love and war, hope and despair. It
is the time we raise our young families, practice our vocations, plant seeds for
future harvests, try to make ends meet, and come face to face with the reality
that the journey is indeed more arduous and full of more perils and opportunities
than we had first imagined from within the inexperienced and structured world
of our Apprenticeship.

This Phase is indeed a journey of work. It is a test of endurance. A repetitive
routine of often imperceptible gains punctuated by storms and at times fair winds
that lift us out of our travail to remind us that there is both a destination and a
purpose for the journey.

If it were a season, Journeywork would probably be summer. Unlike the
springtime of Apprenticeship, whose tender blossom gives way to the greening
leaf, Journeywork bears the full heat of the day on its back to produce the food
to nourish and sustain through autumn and winter.

Journeywork takes strength, endurance, and reliance upon ones Apprenticeship
training and growing experience to complete the work in the craftsperson's way;
full pleasure comes not only from what has been created: the finished work
itself, but from the manner in which it has been done.

PHASE III: MASTERWORKS
The Masterworks Phase can be characterized as the finishing Phase of works
which may be the culmination of years of Journeywork to distinguish oneself as
a craftsperson. What primarily distinguishes works performed during this Phase
whether begun during the Journeywork years, or brand new, is that they are
works of fulfillment.

Journeyworks are by and large required works; infrastructural works like the
main support beams in a building. They are done to meet the primary
requirements of the job; to lay down the foundation. It is not to say that
foundational works cannot be superior displays of one's craftsmanship. In fact,
some of life's greatest "masterpieces" are the results of the "required work"
performed during the Journeywork Phase.

Masterworks on the other hand, are those which may be thought of as artistic
works. The outcome being pure expressions of the craftsperson's making, not so
different from the decorative 'finish work' of one's home that has taken half a
lifetime to build.

This Phase can be one of the most trying of all for it requires planning,
resources and energy. If not planned for in advance, it becomes a time of
disappointment and heartache as the "life" which stands structurally finished,
lays empty of furnishings and comforts lacking purpose and motivation.

Many men and women approaching their 50's, who after striving through their
Journeywork years arrive at the threshold of Masterworks only to be confronted
with painful questions: "What has it all been for? What shall I do with the rest of
my life after having given "my best years" to the company or raising a family, or
having been the faithful spouse? What's there for me to do now?" and many
more questions like these.

For the craftsperson of life the Masterworks Phase is a very dynamic time. It is
the time in one's life after having struggled to master oneself and the unstable
world around us that one is still young enough and energetic, yet old enough to
have wisdom to achieve great heights.

Masterworks is the time for polishing your life -- your "ultimate masterpiece."
Where Journeywork is the time of giving form, definition and substance to your
life, Masterworks is the period of "finish carpentry." All the thousand details put
right that make the difference between a job begun, and a job well finished. You
will need the years of Masterworks to accomplish the apparently simple task of
adjusting here, smoothing there, cleaning up this or that, and finishing what
you've started before you are ready to enter Mentorship - the final Phase of
Making a Masterpiece of Your Life.

PHASE IV: MENTORSHIP
In Greek mythology, Mentor was the trusted friend of Odysseus and the tutor of
Telemachus, Odysseus' son. During the Trojan War, Odysseus entrusted the care
of his household to Mentor.

Today, Mentor has become a reference to "one who is a trusted advisor". It
does not take a lifetime to become a trusted advisor; one into whose hands
something of great value can be placed without fear that it will be mishandled;
and one who can offer guidance and expect nothing in return.

There are many opportunities and circumstances when we are called upon to
mentor to another who is facing a challenge and needs a trusted advisor. But
these situations as they may appear from time to time earlier in our lives are
lasting only for a moment. After all, we ourselves are engaged full-time in
Apprenticeship, Journeywork or Masterworks which place our own lives as the
daily center of attention. It is not yet the full time of Mentorship when we can
turn our attention from the constant call of "I" to "Thou".

Mentorship is the source of nourishment for a new Spring season of
Apprentices beginning their training, strength for Journey-workers bearing the
Summer heat of life, and encouragement for Masters approaching their Autumn
days. The elders of our families are Mentor's if they embrace their Mentorship,
and if we embrace them. It is a partnership between the generations bound by
love and respect.

There is no less need today for Mentors to guide us all as craftspeople through
the challenges of each Phase of life from Apprenticeship, through Journeywork,
into Masterworks. To learn more visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

The Five Elements of LIFECRAFT

"As wood is to the carpenter or clay to the potter, so is the Human Being to the
practitioner of LIFECRAFT."
--Charles P. Collins Craftsman
1. Family Heritage --"A Rich Source of Pride"
The First Element of LIFECRAFT is your Family Heritage. Your Family is
alive with a past, a present and a future. It is the place from which Human
Beings emerge and connect to in some form all the days of our lives. Who you
are and who you become is greatly influenced by your connection to Family. It
is the basis of who we first see ourselves to be. We begin our training in
LIFECRAFT here.

To master this first Element requires the knowledge and understanding of your
Family's past, present and its path toward the future. Sample subjects you will
find in the Life Planner are: o Philosophy and Values o Family Goals and
Accomplishments o Ancestry o Family Symbols o Family Mission
2. Family Management -- "Your Handbook for Happiness"
The Second Element of LIFECRAFT is concerned with the smooth running of
your home making it a happy place for all family members to live and grow.
Families have different rules, policies and procedures for getting along and for
living together. If the Family and its environment are not managed in a balanced
way, conflicts arise causing pain and distress for family members. Good Family
management is a critical element to the family's happiness and success. Subjects
for study include: o Good Conduct o Personal/Family Property o
Schedules and Time o Safety & Security 3. Family & Personal Finance -
- "Grow & Prosper in Abundance"
The Third Element of LIFECRAFT deals with managing money. Money is a
vital resource to fuel the growth of your family as water is to the growth of a
flower. To master this element in all its variations can be a lifelong quest. For
this reason, many mistakenly believe that they cannot hope to achieve even a
moderate level of craftsmanship in this seemingly complex element. The result is
either great distress or distrust on the part of families and individuals when it
comes to dealing with this -- one of LIFECRAFT's five principal elements.

The truth is, families and individuals can achieve incremental excellence in this
critical element of LIFECRAFT providing abundance of resources for Family
and personal growth. Subjects include: o Budgeting o Investing o
Insurance o Retirement o Financial Goals o Contributions 4. The
Human Being -- "Making a Masterpiece of Your Life"
The Fourth Element -- the "primary material" of LIFECRAFT is the Human
Being. As wood is to the carpenter or clay to the potter, so is the Human Being
to the practitioner of LIFECRAFT. A natural, uneven material, the Human Being
requires very special handling. It is both fragile and resilient under the right
conditions. Human Being's sprout and grow from the gardens we call Family.

For this reason, we place knowledge of the Family Heritage and Family
Management as LIFECRAFT elements for study in advance of the study of the
Human Being; the fruit of the family tree. The ultimate goal of practicing
LIFECRAFT is to make a masterpiece of your life, and to teach our children to
make a masterpiece of theirs. Subjects for study include: o Sexuality o
Death o Emotions o Diet o Exercise o Career 5. Tools for Living -
- "Power to Shape Your Life"
The Fifth Element of LIFECRAFT concerns itself with powerful instruments
called tools. When used in the hands of skilled craftsmen and craftswomen, they
produce superior results. When used by the untrained or when carelessly used
they can cause great and irreparable damage to the fragile Human Being -- the
"materia prima" -- raw material of LIFECRAFT.

Tools are employed in diverse applications within all of the first four Elements
of LIFECRAFT. However, we have identified them as a separate fifth Element
because we feel they are unique creations. They are a vital element of
LIFECRAFT by themselves. Each tool is an extension of the craftsperson. An
instrument to harness and shape the energy within us and around us. Thus, the
toolmaker is a special craftsperson among craftspeople. Subjects include: o
Types of Tools o Care & Maintenance o Proper Application To learn more
visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

Part 2: The Material

" The body of knowledge is divided into five distinct Elements. Each Element
is a distinct vital part of the craft of life as a whole. Within each Element are
contained many individual life skills subjects or 'topics'. The objective of
'Making a Masterpiece of Your Life' is to achieve incremental excellence over
time in all of The Five Elements."
--Life As A Craft


"For the craftsman knows, that his central task is the creation of himself; and it
is above all for this aim that he strives with endless patience, separating 'the
subtle from the gross, softly and with great care,' to make what his hands touch
turn to gold."
--A. K. Coomaraswamy
Writer Craftsman
The Life Planner is the central organizing system for managing your practice of
LIFECRAFT. Every craft has "how to" manuals and handbooks to help guide
practitioners through the practical aspects of each discipline. The Life Planner
was created with this same purpose in mind. It is a practical everyday reference
to help you manage your daily practice of life as a craft.

Browse through The Five Elements and focus on those Elements or specific
subjects within each Element which are of immediate use to you. However, it is
only a starting point. Each subject contained within each of The Five Elements is
a body of knowledge unto itself. As such, there are books and many other
authoritative works which expand upon these subjects far beyond their limited
treatment here in the Life Planner. This was intentional so that you would act
and seek out more complete works by competent craftspeople as the need arises.
To learn more visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

The Life Planner:
1. Family Heritage - A Rich Source of Pride
2. Family Management - A Handbook for Family Happiness
3. Family & Personal Finance - Grow & Prosper in Abundance
4. The Human Being - Your Masterpiece
5. Tools for Living - Power To Shape Your Life

FAMILY HERITAGE
Element I "Human Beings cannot seem to live without family ties in some way.
Family is a power that goes beyond all of us as individuals."
--Charles P. Collins Craftsman
The First Element of LIFECRAFT is your Family Heritage. Your family is
alive with a past, a present and a future. It is the place from which Human
Beings emerge and connect to in some form all the days of our lives. Who you
are and who you become is greatly influenced by your connection to family. It is
the basis of who we first see ourselves to be. We begin our training in
LIFECRAFT here.

To master this First Element requires the knowledge and understanding of your
family's past, present and its path toward the future. The topics below are some
of the many subjects of interest for your consideration. Further study on each
topic can be done by reading more complete works on each subject as required.

Family Heritage Topics:
Life With Your Family
Knowledge of Your Family
Ancestry
Your Family Tree
Immediate Family Members
Relatives
Seniority
Family Name
Family Heirlooms & Memorabilia
Family Symbols
Family Anthem
Family Colors
Family Rituals
Family Mission Statement
Family Goals & Objectives
Family Achievements & Awards
Return to the Life Planner TOC >
FAMILY MANAGEMENT
Element II

"Throughout the many years that I have been involved in craft work, I have
worked toward two goals---perfection and authenticity. My experience in
teaching crafts has proved conclusively to me that,...the best way to learn how to
perform a skill is actually to do it. It is important to remember that in order to do
a craft well, it is first necessary to master the techniques. I encourage you to
make this your primary objective." 3
--Roberta Raffaelli
Master Craftswoman & Teacher
The Second Element of LIFECRAFT is concerned with the smooth running of
your home making it a happy place for all family members to live and grow.
Families have different rules, policies and procedures for getting along and for
living together. If the family and its environment is not managed in a balanced
way, conflicts arise causing pain and distress for family members.

Good Family Management - like managing a sports team or a business, is a
critical Element to the family's happiness and success. The topics below are
some of the many subjects of interest for your consideration. Further study on
each topic can be done by reading more complete works on each subject as
required. To learn more visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

Family Management Topics:
Home & Garden
Family Policies
Confidential Information
Your Personal File
Conduct
Individual Performance
Substance Abuse
Family Member Assistance
Grievances & Suggestions

FAMILY & PERSONAL FINANCE
Element III " Money is a vital resource to fuel the growth of your family as
water is to the growth of a flower."
--Charles J. Givens Financial Craftsman
The Third Element of LIFECRAFT deals with managing money. To master this
element in all its variations can be a lifelong quest. For this reason, many
mistakenly believe that they cannot hope to achieve even a moderate level of
craftsmanship in this seemingly complex element. The result is either great
distress or distrust on the part of families and individuals when it comes to
dealing with this -- one of LIFECRAFT's Five Elements.

The truth is, families and individuals can achieve incremental excellence in this
critical Element providing abundance of resources for family and personal
growth. The topics below are some of the many subjects of interest for your
consideration. Further study on each topic can be done by reading more
complete works on each subject as required. To learn more visit:

Family and Personal Finance Topics:
Financial Planning
Income
Budgeting
Taxes
Credit
Investing
Contributions
Personal Financial Goals
Insurance Coverage
Estate Planning

THE HUMAN BEING
Element IV

"We have made thee neither of heaven nor of earth, neither mortal nor immortal,
So that with freedom of choice and with honor, as though the maker and molder
of thyself, Thou mayest fashion thyself in whatever shape Thou shalt prefer.
Thou shalt have the power out of thy soul's judgment, to be reborn into the
higher forms, which are divine."
--Pico Della Mirandola
from God's speech to Adam
on the Dignity of Man
The Fourth Element -- the "primary material" of LIFECRAFT is the Human
Being. As wood is to the carpenter or clay to the potter, so is the Human Being
to the practice of LIFECRAFT. A natural, uneven material, the Human Being
requires very special handling. It is both fragile and resilient under the right
conditions. Human Beings sprout and grow from the gardens we call Family.

For this reason, we place knowledge of Family Heritage, Family Management
and Family & Personal Finance as Elements for study in advance of the study of
the Human Being; the fruit of the family tree. The ultimate goal of practicing
LIFECRAFT is to make a masterpiece of your life, and to teach our children to
make a masterpiece of their own. The topics below are some of the many
subjects of interest for your consideration. Further study on each topic can be
done by reading more complete works on each subject as required. To learn
more visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

The Human Being Topics:
Your Life
YOUR OUTER BEING
Birth
Sexuality
Death
Self Preservation
Diet & Nutrition
Exercise
Health Examinations
Grooming & Personal Appearance
Personal Care & Hygiene
Etiquette & Manners
YOUR INNER BEING
Beliefs
Emotions
Spirit
Values
Personal Goals
Self Expression
Education & Knowledge
Career & Livelihood
Relationships & Companions
Recreation
TOOLS FOR LIVING
Element V

"Dedicate yourself to perfecting the skills necessary to use the tools of the
LIFECRAFT practitioner. Tools are very powerful instruments. When used in
the hands of a trained Journeyman or Journeywoman, they can produce superior
results. But if used carelessly or by the untrained, they can cause great and
irreparable damage to the Human Being".
--Charles P. Collins
Craftsman
The Fifth Element of LIFECRAFT concerns itself with powerful instruments
called tools. Tools are employed in diverse applications within all of the first
four Elements of LIFECRAFT. Yet, we have identified them as a separate fifth
Element because we feel they are unique creations.

Each tool is an extension of the craftsperson. An instrument to harness and
shape the energy within us and around us. Thus, the toolmaker is a special
craftsperson among craftspeople. The topics below are some of the many
subjects of interest for your consideration. Further study on each topic can be
done by reading more complete works on each subject as required. To learn
more visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

Tools for Living Topics:
The Tool Box
Books & Manuals
Periodicals & Publications
Video
Audio
Computers
Time Management
Meditation

The Tool Box
Element V: Tools for Living "All I need to live are my tools and myself."
--Fred Fenster
Metalsmith
Tools are very powerful instruments that focus your energy giving you the
power to shape your life. When used correctly, they can produce superior results.
When used incorrectly or carelessly, they can cause permanent and irreparable
damage to the Human Being; the primary material of the craft of life.

This is your "tool box" for organizing all the different tools you will use from
time to time as a craftsperson of life. To give you a head start in your practice of
LIFECRAFT, this tool box contains all of the individual subject (life topic)
pages found in this book 'Making a Masterpiece of Your Life'.

Keeping your tool box well organized is not only a sign of good craftsmanship,
but also has a very practical purpose. It allows the craftsperson to quickly locate
the particular tool needed for the task at hand without interrupting their
concentration in the flow of the moment.

Properly care for your tools and they will serve you well for years to come.
And remember; treat them with respect for they too are the works of craftsmen.
Return to Tools for Living Topics >
Life With Your Family
Element I: Family Heritage "To distinguish and set apart one's clan or tribe or
to introduce unique character into one's household is not a modern idea,...subtle
works of good taste are now and always have been appreciated."
--Ruth Dayan
Craftswoman
The value of life with your family is very precious. A family is made strong by
providing its members with many wonderful benefits. Benefits which many
people may not share and which you may easily take for granted.

For example simple things like: Unrestricted Love A Beautiful Home Parties
and Outings Formal Education Clothing Personal Allowance Family Member
Assistance Financial Security Sharing in the Family's Wealth Health Care
Personal Time Recognition & Rewards It may seem strange that many of us take
these values for granted, but there are many families who do not share these
simple treasures. What you experience and cultivate becomes a part of your
Family Heritage.
Return to Family Heritage Topics >

Knowledge of Your Family
Element I: Family Heritage "Making musical instruments demands intuition as
well as skill. You can take a piece of furniture apart, see how it was made, and
copy it easily--that takes technological skill. But with instruments, you need
something more. You need to build in fine tone."
--George D. Wilson
Master Instrument-Maker
A thorough knowledge of your family is an important part of building a strong
foundation for your life. You have a rich tradition that is yours by birth right into
your family. These include the honors which members of your family have
earned not only for themselves, but in which you too can share and be proud of.

Some of the many things about your Family which you must apply yourself to
learn include: 1. Ancestry (Genealogy) 2. Family Rituals (special things you
do as a Family) 3. Family Symbols (a Family emblem or Coat of Arms) 4.
Family Mission Statement 5. Family Goals and Objectives So to begin, let us
ask "What is a Family?" To us, a family is a collection of people who are joined
in a relationship that is based upon a promise of faithfulness. Examples of family
relationships based on promises are the marriage vows two members of different
families make publicly to join with one another to build a new branch of their
family trees.

However, there are many examples of families which are formed by people
who are not married to one another. Marriage forms one kind of family. A
pledge of faithfulness can form families of another type. And, even after pledges
have been broken, or formally cease to exist, the ties which create a family are
difficult to erase. They have made their mark on our lives.

Human beings cannot seem to live without family ties in some way. Family is a
power that goes beyond all of us as individuals. In some sense we are all part of
the same family, the same tree. A tree of many branches with fruit of many
colors and shapes. This means that every tribe, every clan, every people of every
nation are somehow, in the end, all relatives in the family of humankind.
Ancestry
Element I: Family Heritage "I made up my mind to learn from the masterpieces
created by our ancestors."
--Xu Xiutang
Teapot Craftsman
Ancestry refers to the past generations of family members from which you
descend. Your ancestors are those family members especially having lived
before your grandparents. The study of your birth lineage beginning with
yourself, and tracing back through your parents and further back into the past is
called genealogy.

Genealogy is the study of family history. It is a record or table of the descent of
a family through its members from an ancestor or ancestors. The study of our
family's ancestry is an important part of your practice of LIFECRAFT which can
span many fascinating years of discovery and adventure. Some of the interesting
things you will explore are your family tree, your family history, family legends
and deeds.

Your family's history is the story of the lives of your ancestors -- Human
Beings who endured trials and celebrated achievements which may have left
marks not only on your lives, their descendants, but on the lives of others as
well. Many little known and long forgotten secrets and fortunes have been
uncovered after many centuries by family members who studied their ancestry.

A requirement to becoming a master craftsperson of life is knowledge of your
family's ancestry, and your contribution to its preservation for future generations.

Your Family Tree
Element I: Family Heritage

"Slavishly copying the designs of the past would allow habit and custom to
govern taste and shackle independence of thought and action. Tradition and
precedent should be adopted as a guide, however, for, unless the
accomplishments of the past are made use of in that way, the present will be
built upon a foundation of sand."
--Franklin H. Gottshall
Master Woodworker
Your Family Tree is a graphic representation demonstrating where each
individual family member fits in. Trace your lineage back through the centuries,
and help to grow your Family Tree strong for future generations to come.

A Family Tree can be represented in several formats, for example as a pedigree
or ancestor chart. Family Trees are often presented with the oldest generations at
the top and the newer generations at the bottom. An ancestry chart, which is a
tree showing the ancestors of an individual, will more closely resemble a tree in
shape, being wider at the top than the bottom. In some ancestry charts, an
individual appears on the left and his or her ancestors appear to the right. A
descendancy chart, which depicts all the descendants of an individual will be
narrowest at the top.

The longest family tree in the world today is that of the Chinese philosopher
and educator Confucius (551–479 BC), a descendant of King Tang (1675–1646
BC). The tree spans more than 80 generations, and includes more than 2 million
members.

Family Tree Maker by Ancestry.com can help you easily create and share your
family tree.
Immediate Family Members
Element I: Family Heritage "The concept of "immediate family" acknowledges

that a person has or may feel particular responsibilities towards family
members."
Your immediate family is a defined group of relations, used in rules or laws to
determine which members of a person's family are affected by those rules. It
normally includes a person's parents, spouses, siblings and children. It can
contain others connected by birth, adoption, marriage, civil partnership, or
cohabitation, such as grandparents, grandchildren, siblings-in-law, half-siblings,
adopted children and step-parents/step-children, and cohabiting partners. The
term 'close relative' is used similarly.

The concept of "immediate family" acknowledges that a person has or may feel
particular responsibilities towards family members, which may make it difficult
to act fairly towards non-family (hence the refusal of many companies to employ
immediate family members of current employees), or which call for special
allowance to recognize this responsibility (such as compensation on death, or
permission to leave work to attend a funeral). The concept is used some
countries' inheritance laws.

In the United States, there are many rules and rights surrounding immediate
family members in the wake of a family death. If the will names a non-
immediate family member to be the executor of the will, he or she cannot have
an "official role in these matters". Even if a person is not a joint owner, if they
are an immediate family member a bank is likely to give them access to the
deceased's safety deposit box. Some states that enforce no-contest provisions do
not enforce them against immediate family members. In some states, the
immediate family may receive a family allowance - a court-ordered amount paid
to them from estate funds to provide help for living expenses. They may also be
entitled to homestead allowance - an amount of equity in the family home.
Relatives

"In some cultures, there is nothing more important than knowing one's place in
the family tree and one's relationship to common ancestors."
Understanding family relationships or "kinship" is a significant element in your
practice of LIFECRAFT. Most people understand their kinship to parents,
grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, but beyond that relationships can be
confusing.

While determining relationships between individuals is a critical element in
constructing an accurate genealogy, there is a deeper rooting that comes from
connecting outward into the larger network of people we call family.

Knowing how someone is related to us can create a bridge between two people
who otherwise might never have known they shared something of importance in
common. In some cultures, there is nothing more important than knowing one's
place in the family tree and one's relationship to common ancestors. While this
does not mean that because someone is related to us we will instantly become
best friends, it's a start to a very special way to get to know someone.

People can be related to us by marriage, birth or adoption into a related family.
There are many different words which describe how someone is related to us.
For example: Uncle, Aunt, Cousin, describe where in the family tree that person
is related to us and how closely i.e. a First Cousin is different from a Second
Cousin, or a Great Uncle is different from an Uncle. First, we must distinguish
between direct ancestors and collateral relatives.
Direct Ancestors
A direct ancestor is someone listed on your lineage chart, namely your parents,
grandparents, great grandparents and so on.
Collateral Relatives
A collateral relative is not listed on your lineage chart, but would appear on
family group records as brothers and sisters of your direct ancestors. These
include your aunts and uncles and their descendants.
In-Laws
In-laws are the ancestors and relatives of a husband or wife. The father of a
spouse is called the father-in-law. The aunt of a spouse is the aunt-in-law, and a
cousin is a cousin-in-law, and so on.
Step Relations
When a man or woman marries a spouse with children from a previous
relationship the children become step sons and daughters to the new parent. The
new parent becomes a step father or step mother to the children. If both parents
bring children to the marriage, the children become step brothers and sisters to
each other.
Half Relations
Half relations are when someone is related to you through only one of your
direct relatives. For example, if your mother remarried and had a baby boy with
her new husband - your step father, the baby boy is your half brother because
both of you have the same mother but different fathers.
Seniority
Element I: Family Heritage "Only when I was seventy-three, had I got some sort
of insight into the real structure of nature...at the age of eighty I shall have
advanced still further; at ninety, I shall grasp the mystery of things; at a
hundred, I shall be a marvel, and at a hundred and ten every blot, every line
from my brush shall be alive."
--Hokusai
Master Painter
Seniority (from Latin "senex", old man) is the concept of a person or group of
people being older or in charge or command of another person or group, or
taking precedence over them. Control is often granted to senior persons due to
experience or length of service. Seniority also refers to the knowledge or skill
that one obtains with long experience.

In many cultures around the world, to be a 'respected elder' or 'Mentor' is one of
the most honored positions an individual can achieve. This means that person
has a great many things to teach (mentor) us if we take the time to learn from
them. Here are some guidelines as it regards "Respect for Elders".
o At meals offer food first to the elders at the table. These are signs of respect
for their Seniority.
o Refer to elders by their last names unless they ask you to call them by their
first name. You may use the terms "Sir" or "Ma'am" if you do not know an
elders name.
o Be aware especially when elders are older to be gentle in your speech and
your gestures. Because of their age they may be very sensitive to loud noises
or abrupt behavior.

Most importantly, seek to learn what they can teach you, although it may not
come easy. Like an oyster, you must first pry it open to find the pearl inside.
Your Family Name
Element I: Family Heritage "When you accept the gifts you inherit in your family
name, you must also accept the responsibility to care for it and see that it is not
harmed through your careless actions."
The ancient philosophers believed that the nature and character of things were
condensed and represented in their names. In many cultures a person inherits the
name of the family (surname) into which he or she is born. And depending upon
the custom, each will be given a personal name or names by which they are
known. Each individual's personal or "given name" is a record of that person's
presence in the world for all time. It is one of the most permanent of possessions;
it remains when everything else is lost; it is always owned even by those who
possess nothing else.

Your family name which is your shared property by birth, is greater than each
individual family member. It has a life of its own. It is the product of all the
individual lives of all your family members who have lived under its veil, and it
is entrusted to your care to pass on in good health to future generations who will
live under it.

When you inherit your family's name even before your life has barely begun,
each one of us partakes of the good fortune and shares in the achievements of
those family members who have lived before you and who contributed to the
value of your family name.

When you accept the gifts you inherit in your family name, you must also
accept the responsibility to care for it and see that it is not harmed through your
careless actions. Your family name is a valuable family possession to be proud
of for the rest of your life. To master LIFECRAFT, you must learn the origins of
your family name to fully appreciate your heritage and contribute to the value of
your name for future generations inheritance.
Family Heirlooms & Memorabilia
Element I: Family Heritage "The moment you claim and display our family
heirlooms and memorabilia you automatically make a statement about yourself."
An heirloom is a valued possession passed down in a family through
succeeding generations. Memorabilia such as photographs, portraits, and many
other articles record the lives of nations, tribes clans and families. Together, they
are the tangible threads of the history of humankind and objects of great
affection for many families.

Family heirlooms & memorabilia are visible reinforcements providing each
family member a sense of place and belonging, and an encouragement of a
lifestyle based on the recognition of one's connection and responsibility to the
family and of service to others.

The moment you claim and display our family heirlooms and memorabilia you
automatically make a statement about yourself. It not only identifies you as an
individual but as a member of our family. Something bigger than yourself. It is a
representation of your family, its struggles, and its successes; its past, its present,
and pride in the future. Collect and care for our Family heirlooms and
memorabilia with pride.
Family Symbols

"Family Symbols represent continuance and endurance and provide a strong
and lasting symbol for family unity."
Family symbols can be an informal design or object which the family holds
dear and identifies with as a representation of itself. In a more formal sense,
there is an art and science of family symbolism called "Heraldry". Heraldry
developed simultaneously in the twelfth century in Europe where it is referred to
as a "Coat of Arms," and in Japan where the family emblem is called "MON."

However, in the last few decades according to heraldic experts in the Western
world, coats of arms are more widely used, and more new coats of arms have
been designed and recognized than at any previous time in history. While having
originated within a class structured society among those which called themselves
the nobility, authentic coats of arms are today a widespread family based
treasure available to all who are made noble by the lives they lead and the values
they hold dear.

More importantly, the use of family symbols or "arms" as we shall refer to
them is not an indication of great wealth, nor pretension, nor even (in the case of
newly created arms) of "old family", nor for that matter of a high level of
educational or cultural attainment. Arms serve as a subtle but constant reminder
to descendants who bear them of their continuing responsibility to lead lives of
honor and service and thereby bring even greater honor and recognition to the
family arms.

A registered coat of arms or other, less formal family symbol proudly
represents an active and present relationship between members of a family and a
visible linkage between the past, present and future generations. Arms then
represent continuance and endurance and provide a strong and lasting symbol for
family unity.

Arms serve to encourage a sense of interdependence which strengthens the
family structure. The arms shared by members of a family are a heritage of
'belongingness', promoting the ideal of a family joined together and inseparable
in spirit.

Armorial bearings contain a quality of intangibility which is most significant to
the family. Lands, monies, and properties may be lost because of economic
changes, wars and other disasters, leaving ensuing generations without
inheritance. However, a coat of arms is a recorded design of identification which
is fully able to survive change and loss. It can even endure a dormant period only
to be reclaimed by rightful descendants at a later time. At the armiger's (one
holding title to the coat of arms) death, the armorial estate is left to descendants
throughout all future generations.

It is a legacy which can never be depleted, devalued, lost or stolen; rather the
arms of just and honorable persons singularly increase in their meaning,
significance and value as they are taken up and borne by those descendants in
each generation who proudly claim their birthright by registering to bear the
ancestral arms.
Family Anthem
Element I: Family Heritage "Climb ev'ry mountain,
Ford ev'ry stream,
Follow ev'ry rainbow,
'Till you find your dream!"
--Oscar Hammerstein & Richard Rogers Music Craftsmen
We all have music and songs which are very important to us. It may be the
childhood melody sung to us at bedtime, or the music we heard as we came of
age, or the special song which lovers share. However, of all the times and
relationships that music has made a special place in our lives, we may not have
considered a special Anthem to celebrate our Family.

The Family Anthem in some cultures is a recognized 'trademark' of
identification and sung loudly and proudly like a team 'fight song' by extended
family members at gatherings and festival competitions. In other cases, it may
be a popular song, an instrumental melody, or an entire symphony that holds a
special, private meaning for a particular family.

What is important is that your Family Anthem - like other 'intangible' family
treasures, can span generations and be shared by all.
Family Colors
Element I: Family Heritage "Family colors are one more way to bind your
family together."
Colors have long been used by families to symbolize special meanings making
them the "Family colors". Each color may have a special significance which
connect the family to the particular ideas or events represented by the colors.

There is great diversity in the use of colors and their associations between
cultures and even within the same culture in different time periods. There is
evidence to suggest that colors have been used for this purpose as early as
90,000 BC.
The use of Family colors are one more way to bind your family together with
outward reminders of connection to one another and meanings that you hold
dear.
Family Rituals
Element I: Family Heritage "Rituals can aid in creating a firm sense of family
identity."
Family rituals are special acts customarily repeated on a regular basis. It could
be weekly, yearly, or daily. Record your family rituals. Write about them letting
each family member describe what your Family Rituals mean to them. Family
Rituals can aid in creating a firm sense of family identity. Humans have used
rituals to create bonds and nourish interpersonal relationships for thousands of
years.

Here are some examples to get you started: Gatherings
Reunions
Celebrations
Outings and Holidays Cultural Events
Sunday's with Family Giving Special Gifts Return to Family Heritage Topics >
Family Mission Statement
Element I: Family Heritage "With a deep love of clay...the potter learns his craft.
Once he has developed and controlled the techniques, he has within his hands
the ability to create a mirror of his people."
--Ruth Dayan
Craftswoman
A Family Mission Statement is a very useful instrument to express your
identity as a Family. It is a clear vision of your Family's direction, and its sense
of purpose in the world. It can bind family members together emotionally and
financially through good times and bad. And, it acts as a model from which
individual family members may eventually craft a personal mission statement for
their own lives.

Here are a few themes for thought: o The care and well-being of all Human
Beings o Make a lasting contribution to the welfare of all living things o
Let our work be excellent and speak for itself, and if necessary, use words.
Family Goals & Objectives

"Goals form a Master Plan -- an itinerary for the journey of life."
A goal is a clearly defined point -- an objective to be reached. Like a city on a
map, a goal is a destination to which one journeys. And just like a journey, once
a specific goal or destination has been reached, it becomes the starting point for
the next destination. Together, all our goals form a Master Plan -- an itinerary for
the journey of life.

We recommend acting on just 1 or 2 at a time or it will feel like a book of rules.
Here are some examples we have seen:
1. Recognize and reward all Family members for their effort and
contribution to the success of our Family.
2. Dedicate ourselves to "Constant And Never-Ending Improvement,"
CANI (Anthony Robbins)
3. Develop ourselves to become competent people who understand and
meet our objectives, and who accept with open minds the ideas,
suggestions and constructive criticisms of fellow Family members.
4. Respect individual rights, and treat all Family members with courtesy
and consideration.
5. Keep our living and working spaces attractive, comfortable, orderly and
safe.

Achievements & Awards
Element I: Family Heritage "Awards are valued possessions to be passed down
through succeeding generations."
An award is something given to a person or a group of people to recognize their
excellence in a certain field; a certificate of excellence (i.e. craftsmanship).
Awards are often signified by trophies, titles, certificates, commemorative
plaques, medals, badges, pins, or ribbons.

An award may carry a monetary prize given to the recipient; for example, the
Nobel Prize for contributions to society or the Pulitzer Prize for literary
achievements. An award may also simply be a public acknowledgment of
excellence, without any tangible token or prize.

Awards are valued possessions to be passed down through succeeding
generations as examples and goals for other individuals to attain. For families, a
success for any family member can be a success for all as it brings honor to your
family name and all of those who live under it.
Family Policies
Element II: Family Management

"Policies and procedures will be different for each family for a variety of
reasons."
Many times families find themselves in situations with the need to discuss a
'policy' or 'rule of the house' only to find that the policy is at best marginally
clear to the family members engaged in the situation, and worse it may be a
moment of crises when emotions are running high.

It is at times such as this that family members usually find themselves left with
nothing but the first thought or phrase which comes to mind. This is rarely
adequate to solve a situation leaving family members bitter and angry instead of
people who truly desire to live peacefully with one another.

Sometimes, things are better said in writing where each family member can
individually refer to the policy in private and consider its meaning for
themselves. Examples of sensitive family policies like this might be a family
member's sexuality, substance abuse, or financial trouble. Sensitive issues for
which the need to provide family members a dignified way of coming to terms
with their situation might be better started on paper to help open the way for
family members to sit down face to face.

Including sensitive topics in writing; perhaps in the form of a personal letter or
greeting card also displays an open acknowledgment by the family that such
topics have been thought about and are not off limits. That they will be dealt
with in a sensitive and respectful manner mindful of each family member's
dignity, and that they are a real part of human life. As Human Beings, family
member's may have to deal with any one or all of them some day in their own
lives.

Policies and procedures will be different for each family for a variety of reasons
which will make a difference as to which policies are likely to be appropriate.
Return to Family Management Topics >

Confidential Information
Element II: Family Management "Life with your family assumes an obligation to
maintain confidentiality."
As family members, you entrust each other with important personal and family
information especially in a time when identity theft via the Internet requires
confidentiality. In safeguarding the information received, we earn the respect
and further trust of each other and ourselves.

Life with your family assumes an obligation to maintain confidentiality. Do not
discuss family business with anyone who does not have a direct association with
the situation. Even casual remarks can be misinterpreted and repeated as
"gossip", so develop the personal discipline necessary to maintain
confidentiality.

If you are questioned by someone outside the family and you are concerned
about the appropriateness of giving them certain information, remember that you
are not required to answer, and should do so. Instead, as politely as possible,
refer the request to the family.

No one is permitted to remove or make copies of any family records, or
documents, without the prior approval of the family member(s) to whom the
information belongs.
Your Personal File
Element II: Family Management "This is especially important in today's world
of computers and information."
With so much of our personal information available via the Internet, keeping
your personal file up-to-date is an important safeguard. Whenever there is a
change in any of the following items, be sure it is under your control: 1. Legal
name 2. Home address 3. Home telephone number 4. Person to call in case of
emergency 5. Number of dependents 6. Marital status 7. Change of beneficiary
8. Driving record or status of driver's license, if you operate any Family vehicles
9. Military or draft status 10. Birth Records 11. Credit and financial records
12. Educational records 13. Voter registration 14. Military records Coverage
or benefits that you may receive under a benefits package could be affected if the
information in your personal file is incorrect. As you get older you will be in
charge of your personal file. This is especially important in today's world of
computers and information.

Standards of Conduct

"Don't learn the tricks of the trade. Learn the trade."
--Anonymous
Craftsperson
Rules of conduct are used to help people live together harmoniously, to achieve
our goals, and be happy. Some people have problems with "rules" and "authority
figures," and in some cases may have a good reason for these thoughts and
feelings; however, rules and standards of conduct remind us to be aware of one
another and not just oneself. Look around and notice just how many people
behave as if they are the only one in the room.

We all have a responsibility to adhere to certain rules of behavior and conduct
including the laws of the community in which we live. The purpose of these
rules is not to restrict your rights, but to be certain that you and others
understand what conduct is expected and necessary. When individuals can
depend on each other to follow the rules of conduct, then your family will
always be a great place to live and grow for everyone.
Individual Performance
Element II: Family Management "So even before we start such a work of art, we
feel we have a responsibility to finish it, regardless of any difficulties."
--Xu Hantang
Teapot Craftsman
Performance is the way you do something. Each person continuously evaluates
their own performance in everything they do. Living together day-to-day gives
us all a sense of how each of us performs and helps to share family
responsibilities.

No one person in your Family should have to pull all the weight. Following are
some of the things each person should consider, as a way to measure how well
you are performing for yourselves, and as a valuable member of the Family.
o Initiative and effort in your work o How well you understand what you
are supposed to do o Your attitude and willingness o The quality and
quantity of your work The primary reason to review your performance in
relation to your family and your personal self, is to identify your strengths
and weaknesses in order to reinforce good habits and develop ways to
improve in weaker areas. Review also serves to make you aware of how your
performance compares to the goals of your life. Good performance is good
craftsmanship.
Substance Abuse
Element II: Family Management "If you put out sorry stuff, you'll ruin your
trade."
--Elmer Kear
Broom Maker
Whenever use or abuse of any mood altering substance (such as alcohol or
other drugs) interferes with a safe home and workplace, appropriate action must
be taken. Individuals have personal lives, however, involvement with any mood
altering substances that can have an impact on your family's safety and security
is careless and dangerous.

Therefore, while you may make your own lifestyle choices, your family and
your workplace cannot accept the risk which substance abuse may create in their
lives when someone is uncontrollably under the influence. Finally, you cannot
make a masterpiece of your life unless you are crystal clear and in control.
Family Member Assistance
Element II: Family Management "In creating, the only hard thing's to begin. A
grass-blade's no easier to make than an oak; if you've once found the way,
you've achieved the grand stroke."
--James Russell Lowell
Craftsman
Provide a confidential way for assistance to Family members whose personal
problems are affecting their abilities to live and function at the best they can be.
Arrangements should be available for a Family member to see a professional
who is specially trained in your specific problem area, including: o
Alcoholism o Financial problems o Domestic violence o Drug
dependency o Eating disorders o Emotional illness o Family problems
o Legal problems o Marital conflict o Abortion o Sexuality
Confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of the program. No one
outside your Family should know about it unless you tell them. No information
will be discussed without your involvement unless you are unable to do so for
yourself. Your willingness to help yourself is the first step.
Grievances & Suggestions
Element II: Family Management "Criticism comes easier than craftsmanship."
--Zeuxis of Greece, 500 B.C.
Painter & Craftsman
An efficient, successful household and happy family members go hand in hand.
Family member grievances or suggestions are important, regardless of whether
the problems or ideas are large or small. While you should encourage talking it
out, there are some situations which may call for a more formal approach.

A grievance is any event, condition, rule, or practice which a Family member
believes treats him or her unfairly. This covers a wide range of circumstances. A
grievance may also deal with an attitude, a statement, or an opinion held by one
Family member to another. Remember, talking things over usually helps. When
you have a grievance or other problem, talk it over first.
1. Talk It Over With The Family First If for some reason you do not have
the opportunity to discuss the matter, or if the discussion does not lead to a
satisfactory conclusion, then...
2. Put It In Writing Explain the present situation, the desired condition, and
your proposed solution/suggestion. Your grievance/suggestion could be a brief
statement or a simple idea.
3. Grievance/Suggestion Conversation Together review the
grievance/suggestion and sit down for a conversation. This may be with or
without the presence of other Family members. At this conversation, openly
discuss the complaint and the reasons for feeling troubled. In order for this
policy to work, each Family member must want it to work, and be willing to do
whatever it takes to make it work.
Home & Garden

"Have nothing in your homes that you do not know to be useful or believe to be
beautiful."
--William Morris
Designer, Philosopher & Craftsman
A home is a place of residence or refuge. When it refers to a building, it is
usually a place in which an individual or a family can live and store personal
property. "Home" is also used to refer to the geographical area (whether it be a
suburb, town, city or country) in which a person grew up or feels they belong.

Sometimes, as an alternative to the definition of "home" as a physical locale
("Home is where you hang your hat"), home may be perceived to have no
physical location, instead, home may relate instead to a mental or emotional state
of refuge or comfort. Popular sayings along these lines are "Home is where the
heart is". Here, we are referring to the physical place of residence relating to
Family Management.

Since it can be said that humans are generally creatures of habit, the state of a
person's home has been known to physiologically influence their behavior,
emotions, and overall mental health.

"Determine to be a good craftsman; form sound working habits right from the
start. Sloppy studios usually mean sloppy work..."
--Rand Holub
Master Calligrapher

Financial Planning
Element III: Family and Personal Finance "The biggest problem with money is
that it doesn't come with an instruction book . . ."
--Charles J. Givens
Financial Craftsman
Financial planning goals are those goals we desire to achieve for the collective
welfare of the Family. This is somewhat different from personal financial goals
which are those activities we seek to achieve only as individuals.

Financial planning or goal setting defines the destination. Your income and the
way you manage to keep it and use it is the necessary fuel to get you there. It's
one thing to fill the tank with gas, it's another to leave the cap off allowing it to
evaporate or worse yet, having your hard won income siphoned off by
unnecessary expenses such as paying too much taxes, too much insurance, and
too much interest.

Our family financial goals are developed from the perspective of our collective
needs such as: 1. Developing an income source which provides for the
living of all family members whether we are all living under one roof, or apart
from one another. Our family goal is to manage and maintain an economically
successful Family financial plan so that a consistent and balanced lifestyle is
enjoyed by all Family members.
2. To develop each family member's capability to generate income for
themselves as well as to contribute to the Family plan. And to teach all family
members to manage both family and personal financial resources in a prudent
manner.
3. To establish family contribution goals for investing and contributing a
portion of the family income to the growth and well-being of all living things.
Return to Family & Personal Finance Topics >
Income
Element III: Family and Personal Finance "If you have the opportunity to
generate more than you need, learn to skillfully invest it."
Income is the amount of money or something else of equal value which you
receive in exchange for your labor or services, from the sale of some goods or
property, or as profit from financial investments. For most of recorded history
and even up to the early years of this century, the majority of humankind who
have lived off the land, hardly needed money for day-to-day needs. Barter was,
and still is recognized in many marketplaces "as good as gold."

Generating income is one of the vital skills of LIFECRAFT. How much income
you generate will depend by and large upon the type of income generating
activities you engage in, how much those activities are valued or measured in
money, and the combination and/or variety of different income generating
activities that you develop to work together as an income generating system. A
money machine.

There are as many formula's and combinations of activities which make up
income generating systems as there are people and ideas. For example, some
people "engineer wealth" by actively focusing on the trading of financial
instruments such as stocks, bonds, and currency exchange. Others focus on
developing the ability to consistently provide a product or a service for which
they receive income in exchange. Still others, use various combinations of both
approaches.

Whichever way or combination of ways you decide to use to legally and
honorably generate income, it is important for you to understand early in your
life how to manage this vital skill. Do not allow generating income to control
your life by becoming the most important activity in your life. For many people
it is the only thing they think about and it soon becomes a sickness called greed
to which they become addicted like a drug until they are consumed by it.

Neither disregard the essential importance of generating income so you may
feed and clothe yourself and your family and have all the good things of life in
abundance. Also, do not unnecessarily limit your income. If you have the
opportunity to generate more than you need, learn to skillfully invest it and
contribute it for you do not know what the future will bring. As in all
LIFECRAFT skills, pursue incremental excellence and you will master it.
Budgeting
Element III: Family and Personal Finance

[Craftsmanship] "tells us something about...the proper use of resources...the
craftsman...wasted not and wanted not. These skills could well prove more useful
in the future than they have in the dim past. As we are forced to reexamine the
necessities of life in a fragile environment and on a reduced budget,
resourcefulness in the use of natural materials may again establish itself as the
norm rather than the exception."
--Martin Lawrence
Writer & Craftsman
Every craftsperson learns from very early in their apprenticeship the idea of
properly managing the materials of their craft. Budgeting is the craftsperson's
tool for planning in advance how much income they expect to receive and how
to use it to meet family and personal financial goals. Like all of LIFECRAFT,
budgeting is a systematic plan for managing the commodity we call money.

If you learn to use this tool with skill as a true craftsperson, it will serve you
well and help you to achieve your ultimate goal; "to make a masterpiece of your
life." Fortunately for today's craftsperson, there are many powerful and easy to
use tools to help you manage your family and personal budget. Your budget will
help you to organize your finances and understand how you are using your
money. With this tool you will be able to quickly understand whether or not you
are using your money to achieve your family and personal financial goals.

If you should find that the way you are presently using your money is not
helping you to achieve your financial goals the way you would like to, then you
can also use your budget to help you realign where you are "sending" your
money. Your main goal is to "send" your money to the right places in the right
quantities to achieve the results you desire.

Every craftsperson whether a farmer or a woodworker knows from experience
that just the right amount of focus or pressure in just the right place makes the
difference between a good harvest or a cabinet door that is chronically out of
alignment. Your budget is a measuring tool just like the craftsman's ruler used
together with the draftsman's blueprint.
1. Your first budget measurement will show you how you spend your
income. You don't align a ten foot stone wall by only measuring the first 5 feet.
Measure the whole thing.
2. Your second measurement will compare how out of alignment your
current use of your income is with your "blueprint", that is, your family and
personal financial plan. From here you can calculate what amount of corrective
work you will have to do and how long it should take to bring your use of
income into alignment with your financial blueprint.
3. Your third measurement will be tracking the progress you will be
making each week and each month as you are making little adjustments which
continually bring your use of your income into "plumb" with your financial
blueprint.
4. Once you have completed the corrective adjustments and you are in line
with your financial blueprint, your budget continues to act as monitoring tool to
warn you if your use of income is out of "plumb" with your plan. Even stone
walls of the greatest craftsmanship are subject to the powerful changing forces of
nature.

Taxes
Element III: Family and Personal Finance "Confidence and courage come from
knowing how the tax system really works."
Taxation is the imposition of a mandatory levy on the citizens of a country by
their government. In almost all countries tax revenue is the major source of
financing for public services. Ultimately, taxes are the price paid for publicly
provided services. In a democracy a majority of citizens (or their representatives)
vote to impose taxes on themselves in order to finance, through the public sector,
services on which they place value but which they believe cannot be adequately
provided by market processes.
The Personal Income Tax Taxes are the single biggest expense you'll ever face
in life. They outweigh home mortgages and college tuition's combined, yet for
many people tax minimization is not included as part of a managed financial
plan. In order to build wealth, you must get your tax life under control. In order
to accomplish this, you must plan to create legally approved tax deductions
which will help you save hundreds or thousands of dollars when created through
correct strategies just like savings in insurance, mortgages, interest payments,
autos etc. And, this is very important since taxes can eat up half your income.

At first, you will have to really think about how to connect your activities to
potential deductions, but like anything through practice and experience you will
be able to deduct a great many things in your life. The same income, assets or
expenses can be deductible or nondeductible, depending solely how you conduct
your activities during the year.

Almost any form of income, assets or expenses can be made deductible. Your
job is to plan your activities so that they become deductible, but without
spending so much time that you must change your lifestyle. The way to do it is
to plan. To succeed financially you must have the confidence to use tax
strategies. Confidence and courage come from knowing how the tax system
really works, and how to use the system to your best advantage within the
guidelines prescribed by the law.

Credit
Element III: Family and Personal Finance "Develop the craftsman's discipline
for using resources with prudence and not wasting them."
Credit is defined as confidence in a person's ability and intention to fulfill
financial obligations, entitling a person to be trusted when buying or borrowing
something of value including money. A persons credit limit is the total dollar
amount established by a creditor (one who is lending the money) to be available
for use. A credit limit is established in relation to the amount of money a person
earns and owes which determines how much a person can reasonably afford to
pay back.

Consumer credit provides loans for the purchase of goods and services, mostly
such expensive, durable goods as automobiles and major appliances. Home
mortgages could be considered consumer credit, but as a form of long-term debt,
they are usually excluded.

Financial success requires practiced discipline, and there is no better way to
practice than with credit management. You do not have to cut up you credit
cards or refuse to use a line of credit from your bank or department store. What
you will need to do is develop the craftsman's discipline for using resources with
prudence and not wasting them leaving you in a situation which controls you
instead of you controlling it.
Investing

"Deciding how to slice the trunk of a tree can be tricky. You're never really sure
what you'll find inside. It's like cutting a diamond--cut one way and you'll get
something beautiful, cut another way and you lose it all."
--George Nakashima
Master Woodworker
Investing is putting your money to work for you. Powerful investing is a
strategy that can be mastered, but there is much misinformation, or lack of
information and potential for loss including outright fraud that exist in the area
of investing that can destroy any good financial plan.

Your objective as an investor is to put your money to work safely and
effectively making yourself rich instead of making financial institutions rich.
Through your choice of investments you can enjoy income, tax shelter, and
maximum growth or any combination you choose.

There are five basic ways to increase your wealth:
1. Putting yourself to work -- employment
2. Putting other people to work -- business
3. Putting your ideas to work -- inventing, marketing, or consulting
4. Putting your money to work -- investing
5. Putting other people's money to work -- leverage

Putting together a powerful investment program will put an end to the lifelong
dependency on others (employers or the government), even if you don't want the
responsibility of starting your own company. A powerful investment plan is your
ticket financial freedom, both during your working years and after retirement.

As a craftsperson, your decisions on which investments to choose will depend
on your investment experience or lack of it, your financial goals, and the amount
of money you have to invest. Personal knowledge will eliminate risk and fear in
your investment plan. Risk occurs most frequently when you act solely on the
advice of others, without sufficient knowledge, making decisions without taking
control. The greatest risks are taken, not through the investments chosen, but
through the lack of personal knowledge of how to use investment strategies
correctly.

Contributions

"The entire land, spread out in all its wonder, allows the craftsman to make his
contribution to the culture of the world."
--Ruth Dayan
Craftswoman
To contribute is to set aside and give back a portion of one's resources (e.g.
finances, volunteer time, property, etc.) to the community. It is similar to
investing in that over time, a contribution like an investment grows and returns a
benefit to the contributor.

Investing is the term we use when we "plant money to grow more money." This
we already know is an important part of Family & Personal Finance.
Contributing is the word we use when we "plant money to grow other things."
Depending upon what you contribute to will determine what these "other things"
will be.

For example, contributing to the arts "grows" more art, which makes all our
lives richer and more exciting. Contributing to social causes improves our lives
by making our societies run better making life for each of us more satisfying.
Contributing to humane causes helps make life for us as Human Beings more
satisfying by finding cures for sickness and other problems which can affect any
one of us.

As you can see, contributing has a more versatile panorama of return than does
investing which only grows money. However, by no means does this imply that
contributing is any more important than investing. Remember, wise investing is
a necessary and important part of your income generating activities. After all,
without sufficient income you would find it very difficult to contribute to
anything.

Therefore, to master LIFECRAFT, you must practice both investing and
contributing with craftsmanship; that is skillfully. Just as you budget a portion of
your income to be used for investment while carefully selecting the appropriate
financial instruments for your needs to "grow" more money, when you budget a
portion of your income for contribution - to grow "other things", also be
discerning to select those entities with whom you will trust your contributions to
be of good character and solid background and who will provide the greatest
return on your "investment." Be sure to include contributions as a vital part of
your family and personal financial goals.

Personal Financial Goals

"Each plank...can have only one ideal use. The woodworker must find this ideal
use and create an object of utility to man, and, if nature smiles, an object of
lasting beauty."
--George Nakashima
Master Woodworker
Success with money, family, relationships, health, and careers is the ability to
reach your personal objectives in the shortest time, with the least effort, and with
the fewest mistakes. The goals you set for yourself and the strategies you choose
become your blueprint or plan.

Strategies are like recipes: choose the right ingredients, mix them in the correct
proportions, and you'll always produce the same predictable result: in this case,
financial success. The success strategies for managing your money and building
wealth is your map guiding you to your financial goals or destinations. Why
most people find this to be one of life's most difficult journey's is that they are
not clear about their exact goals -- the destination they want to reach and do not
know the strategies -- the way to get there.

Write down your goals -- you need a map to refer to and maps are something
you can hold in your hand and look at to know which direction you're moving in.
Direction and control begin with your written plan spelled out in two parts. Part
"A" lists "dreams" -- what you want for yourself both financially and personally.
This is the stage in which the craftsperson draws a clearly defined portrait of
what the finished work "the goal" will look like in exact detail. It is a blueprint.

Part "B" lists your "strategies" -- the actual steps you will take to travel to your
goal. By clearly defining your direction, and by using the correct techniques
while you work and by cultivating the craftsman's attitude of incremental
excellence, you will establish the shortest route to arrive safely at your
destination.

After you define your destinations, you will need the
necessary equipment and supplies to complete the work.
How much you will need, and how you will go about
getting it is your next step -- your strategies list which
will include: personal financial strategies, tax reducing
strategies, and powerful investment strategies. All of
which you will begin to learn once you take control of
your financial future.
1. Be specific and measurable - you must be able to define your goals in
specific terms so you will know when you have arrived.
2. Have starting and completion dates -- these target dates will help to spur
you on and help you plan how to use your time.
3. Put it in writing -- don't let them roll around in your head. Make them
concrete.
4. State your goals in terms of results not the processes. Focusing on the
results creates your road map.

Your destination -- the result you want -- is the finished craftwork. But there is
a process to getting there. There is a beginning and an end to each work. The
bigger the goal, the more work there will be to reaching them. But then the
highest mountain was never climbed without the effort. Now is the time to
become your own financial expert. Seek out your mentors.

Insurance Coverage
Element III: Family and Personal Finance "Reduce the risk of financial
catastrophe which could destroy many years of hard work."
Insurance involves pooling funds from many (the group) to pay for the losses
that some members of the group may incur. The insured entities (people and
properties) are therefore protected from risk for a fee. Insurance is a commercial
enterprise and a major part of the financial services industry, but individual's can
also self-insure through saving money for possible future losses.

Insurance when used properly, reduces the risk of financial catastrophe which
could destroy many years of hard work. However, like investing and
contributions, insurance needs to change from time to time, and in some cases
are no longer needed but should be replaced by other types of financial
instruments.

Here are some categories and types of insurance within each category to guide
your mastery of this subject:

LIFE
o Term Life Insurance o Whole Life Insurance
HEALTH
o Major Medical and Surgical Coverage o Dental Care Coverage o Vision
Care Coverage o Medical Health Care Coverage o Dependents' Health Care
Coverage's
CASUALTY
o Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance o Automobile Insurance o
Property Theft & Damage (Homeowners) o Umbrella Liability Return to Family
& Personal Finance Topics >
Estate Planning

"A will tells the world exactly where you want your assets distributed when you
die."
An estate is the property to which a person is lawfully entitled. In traditional
law, the word referred to property in land; a person's estate consisted of the
interest or rights that the person held in land. Courts in the United States have
ruled that the word estate covers everything a person owns, both real and
personal.
1. No matter your net worth, it's important to have a basic estate plan in
place.
Such a plan ensures that your family and financial goals are met after you die.
2. An estate plan has several elements.
They include: a will; assignment of power of attorney; and a living will or
health-care proxy (medical power of attorney). For some people, a trust may also
make sense. When putting together a plan, you must be mindful of both federal
and state laws governing estates.
3. Taking inventory of your assets is a good place to start.
Your assets include your investments, retirement savings, insurance policies,
and real estate or business interests. Ask yourself three questions: Whom do you
want to inherit your assets? Whom do you want handling your financial affairs if
you're ever incapacitated? Whom do you want making medical decisions for you
if you become unable to make them for yourself?
4. Everybody needs a will.
A will tells the world exactly where you want your assets distributed when you
die. It's also the best place to name guardians for your children. Dying without a
will -- also known as dying "intestate" -- can be costly to your heirs and leaves
you no say over who gets your assets. Even if you have a trust, you still need a
will to take care of any holdings outside of that trust when you die.
5. Trusts aren't just for the wealthy.
Trusts are legal mechanisms that let you put conditions on how and when your
assets will be distributed upon your death. They also allow you to reduce your
estate and gift taxes and to distribute assets to your heirs without the cost, delay
and publicity of probate court, which administers wills. Some also offer greater
protection of your assets from creditors and lawsuits.
6. Discussing your estate plans with your heirs may prevent disputes or
confusion.
Inheritance can be a loaded issue. By being clear about your intentions, you
help dispel potential conflicts after you're gone.
7. The federal estate tax exemption -- the amount you may leave to heirs
free of federal tax -- changes regularly.
In 2012, estates under $5 million are exempt from the tax. Amounts above that
are taxed up to a top rate of 35%. In 2013, barring congressional action, the
exemption level falls to $1 million, and the top rate jumps to 55%.
8. You may leave an unlimited amount of money to your spouse tax-free,
but this isn't always the best tactic.
By leaving all your assets to your spouse, you don't use your estate tax
exemption and instead increase your surviving spouse's taxable estate. That
means your children are likely to pay more in estate taxes if your spouse leaves
them the money when he or she dies. Plus, it defers the tough decisions about the
distribution of your assets until your spouse's death.
9. There are two easy ways to give gifts tax-free and reduce your estate.
You may give up to $13,000 a year to an individual (or $26,000 if you're
married and giving the gift with your spouse). You may also pay an unlimited
amount of medical and education bills for someone if you pay the expenses
directly to the institutions where they were incurred.
10. There are ways to give charitable gifts that keep on giving.
If you donate to a charitable gift fund or community foundation, your
investment grows tax-free and you can select the charities to which contributions
are given both before and after you die.

Your Life
Element IV: The Human Being

"You must also dedicate yourself to perfecting the skills necessary to use the
tools of the craftsperson."
Your life is unique and in the primary care of a single craftsperson. You are
that craftsperson. Your life is a work in progress. It is always changing and
evolving. Sometimes the progress is rapid and distinct. Other times, it is slow
and imperceptible to you while to others, the changes may be dramatic.

To shape your life into "a masterpiece" - a "work of art", requires skill and the
careful application of the tools of life. To become a master craftsperson is gained
only through experience. You must act. This is the practice of LIFECRAFT.

During your apprenticeship you will apply yourself to the study and the
understanding of life as craft. You must learn the characteristics of the Human
Being - the raw material of LIFECRAFT - just as the potter studies clay, or the
physician human anatomy. Like other natural substances, the Human Being is
organic. It is not a perfect uniform substance like gleaming sheet metal.

Each one therefore, is as unique as the trees of a forest. Like trees, Human
Beings are both very strong yet very fragile beings. Therein lies the beauty, and
the wonder. They must be handled with great care, or they will break.

You must also dedicate yourself to perfecting the skills necessary to use the
tools of the craftsperson. Tools are very powerful instruments. When used in the
hands of a trained Journeyman or Journeywoman, they can produce superior
results. But if used carelessly or by the untrained, they can cause great and
irreparable damage to the Human Being.

The principals of practicing life as a craft are as well defined as any other
endeavor to which Human Beings apply themselves. In this section, you are
being introduced to the principals surrounding the care and development of the
Human Being and resources such as teachers who have spent their lives studying
this unique "material".
Return to The Human Being Topics >

Birth

"...Everything has an inherent beauty which it is the craftsman's duty and
privilege to bring forth."
--Frederick Allen Whiting
Designer & Craftsman
The first nine months of a Human Being's life are spent developing inside their
mother's womb. While inside the young person will grow from a very small seed
into a fully formed Human Being strong enough to continue their growth and
development outside their mother's womb. Birth is the moment when the baby
emerges from their mother's womb into the world outside where they will
continue to grow and develop in the care of their family.

Birth and its preparation have gone through great changes from a time when it
was managed by the mother alone, to the introduction of the midwife to assist in
the preparation and care of the birth, to women giving birth in hospitals attended
primarily by male physicians.

Today, birth is truly becoming a family event. A team effort in which every
member of the family including brothers and sisters have an important part to
play in helping to prepare the home and the family for a new member to come
and share in the life of the family. There are now many options available for
providing for clean and safe surroundings both in and out of hospitals. Fathers
are now playing an active role as a team member and coach in the birth itself and
no longer an outsider.

Newborns come into the world staying connected to their mothers and fathers
not being so quickly separated as in times past. In short, birth is a major event in
the life of the family which can be happily prepared for so that the whole
experience, including the hard work are appreciated for a lifetime!
Sexuality

"Your sexual self is your whole self as a girl or boy, as a woman or a man."
The word sexuality is used today to refer to the whole person including his or
her thoughts, experiences, learning's, ideas, values, and imaginings, as these
have to do with ourselves as males and females. Your sexual self is your whole
self as a girl or boy or a woman or a man; your sexual feelings are feelings that
have to do not just with your physical self, but also with your role in life as a
male or a female and the relationships you will have with people of the opposite
sex, and your own sex at any age. Most of these relationships will be with you,
the inner person and will not involve physical sexual relationships.

Physically expressing your sexuality with the one you love is a very important
part of being a Human Being and there are many wonderful things to learn and
experience about this way of expressing ourselves. But in comparison with all
the many other ways in which we express ourselves as whole Human Beings,
including our sexuality, the physical expression of your sexuality is only a part
of expressing your sexuality with people in the world around you as a male or a
female person.

Sexuality is much more than just the special time when your body has reached
a certain stage of physical maturity to be able to reproduce and have children.
This physical stage when your body is becoming sexually mature is called
puberty. But puberty is not the stage in your growth as a Human Being when you
have become a man or a woman or that you have yet become sexually mature.
There is still much growing to take place in your inner person and in your body
before you are ready for the all the responsibility that comes with sexual
maturity.

Understanding is the key to developing your sexuality as a young man or a
young woman so that expressing your sexuality for the rest of your life will be as
fulfilling as all the other ways of expressing yourself as a Human Being.

Death

"These are our works, these works our souls display; Behold our works when we
have passed away."
--Ananda K. Coomaraswamy
Philosopher of Art
From a simple point of view, death is the moment in time when life is no longer
present in a person's body. Where does the life go to? Does it go to "heaven" or
does it disappear? There are many discussions about these questions and you
may find yourself wondering about this event from one time to another for the
rest of your life. It may mark the beginning of a journey or the end of a journey.
You will have to decide this for yourself.

Whatever you may decide death is an event that affects both the person who
has died and those of us who are still living. For most of us, death brings us
many emotions mostly because we miss the person who has died. If the person is
very close to us and we loved them we may feel a deep sadness or grief that we
will not see them in our daily lives anymore.

As a living craftsperson, a vital part of your practice of LIFECRAFT must
include skillful preparation for the experience of death both as one who will
personally experience the event and as one of the living who must continue on
living after the event of death has come to many who we will know and love
during our lifetime. If we don't make plans, our survivors must make them for
us; and for them it will be a very traumatic, usually costly, and difficult
experience. Therefore, we must practice good craftsmanship through good
planning to prevent this from happening.

People in every culture all over the world have established different methods
and systems for dealing with the death of members of their communities. In
some way they all come down to a few basic guidelines for you to consider:
o The Dead Person's Body must be quickly and properly taken care of
o Their memory and dignity as a Human Being is recognized in a ceremony
o The deceased's property is distributed among the living who remain
o The bereaved are comforted and reestablished into society without the
deceased.

Fortunately in many places around the world there are instruments available to
permit an individual to take care of the life issues surrounding death in
anticipation of his or her own death. Through wills, trusts, insurance, and
prearranged funeral plans one can plan ahead so as to alleviate much of the grief
and dislocation that one's death will cause the living. Consider this important
matter early in the life of your family so that it does not cause you unnecessary
pain and to live life to its fullest. You must acquaint yourself with death for it is
death which makes life precious.

Self Preservation

"Carefully choose your surroundings and be aware of all that is around you."
A craftsperson must be well acquainted with the importance and the techniques
of preservation and protection of valuable works. A craftsperson would never
deliberately place a valuable work in harm's way. Would you leave a great
painting outside uncovered in the middle of a rainstorm ? Or leave expensive
jewelry unattended on a countertop in the midst of a busy store where it might be
stolen ?

Craftsmanship requires you to pay particular attention to protect your craftwork
from theft, destruction and vandalism by skillfully applying all manner of
techniques of preservation and security. These actions include carefully selecting
the environments to which you are exposed, as well as the systems, technologies
and methods you will use to preserve and protect your most precious work;
yourself. This is known as self preservation or self defense and it applies to both
the Outer and the Inner Human Being. This is the craftsperson's way.

Self Preservation and self defense can include a wide range of activities and
subjects from physical survival in situations ranging from being stranded on a
desert island or repelling an attacker on a city street; to protecting the outer
Human Being, to learning to manage your emotions and your feelings so that
your inner Human Being is not so easily harmed or damaged.

As a craftsperson you must pay attention to both. It is your responsibility then
to avoid exposing your outer as well as your inner self to potentially dangerous
situations without taking proper precautions. The best prevention is to carefully
choose your surroundings and be aware of all that is around you. It is also
important to be realistic. There are thieves in the world. Those who may actively
seek to take away what belongs to you. Many systems have been developed to
protect and preserve you from lessons in the martial arts to personal protection
devices. You have the responsibility to preserve yourself from harm.
Diet & Nutrition

"A craftsperson does not misuse the resources of their craft, they protect them."
What we eat can have a lot to do with how we feel and act. All over the world
for thousands of years people everywhere have recognized to one degree or
another, the importance of diet and nutrition as one of the key elements of
LIFECRAFT.

Diet refers to the types and combinations of foods that you eat. In some cultures
meat is a very large part of the diet while in others, no meat is eaten at all. Still
other diets are very strict about the growing and preparation of foods.
Throughout history, different societies have exhibited great variations in diet. So
long as the food supply was sufficient, however, the traditional diets of most
cultures have provided all the essential nutrients.

Your ultimate goal as a craftsperson is to make your life a masterpiece.
Therefore, your body; your outer self -- just like your inner self is an important
part of the masterpiece you will be making. So you will have to make some
important choices about the kind of foods you eat; your diet, to be sure your
body is getting the nutrition it needs to be a work of art.

Another important consideration about your diet is balance. Many times when
someone tells you to eat a balanced diet, they are referring to the types and
combination of foods you are eating to be sure you are getting the right amount
of nutrition. Different cultures have many ideas about what is a balanced diet.

These are some of the most important choices in your life and will determine
both the quality of your own life and health but also the quality of life for all
living things on our beautiful earth for the generations to come. A craftsperson
does not misuse the resources of their craft, they protect them and use only what
is necessary so there is plenty available for tomorrow. Waste not, want not.

Finally, food and its preparation is one of the craftsperson's most creative
expressions! Food is fun when skillfully prepared. It tastes great, smells great,
looks great and makes you feel great when you eat great food. As a craftsperson,
you must dedicate yourself to both a well balanced diet in all its meanings and to
the skillful preparation and sheer enjoyment of food! One without the other is
tasteless!
Exercise
Element IV: The Human Being "Exercise boosts the immune system, and helps
prevent the "diseases of affluence."
Exercise is any bodily activity that enhances or maintains physical fitness and
overall health and wellness. It is performed for various reasons including
strengthening muscles and the cardiovascular system,
honing athletic skills, weight loss or maintenance, as well as for the purpose of
enjoyment. Frequent and regular physical exercise boosts the immune system,
and helps prevent the "diseases of affluence" such as heart
disease, cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes and obesity.

It also improves mental health, helps prevent depression, helps to promote or
maintain positive self-esteem, and can even augment an individual's sex appeal
or body image, which is also found to be linked with higher levels of self-
esteem. Childhood obesity is a growing global concern and physical exercise
may help decrease some of the effects of childhood and adult obesity. Health
care providers often call exercise the "miracle" or "wonder" drug—alluding to
the wide variety of proven benefits that it provides.
Health Examinations

"Any valuable work of art must be properly cared for or it will lose its beauty
and its usefulness."
Your life and your health is very important to you and us. From time to time
you must check up to see that all things are in good order. Just same the way you
would look after any valuable work of art. It must be properly cared for and
maintained or it will lose its beauty and its usefulness.

Providers of health care services and products include many diverse entities
including hospitals, medical and dental practices, nurses, midwives,
physiotherapists, scientific or diagnostic laboratories, pathology clinics,
residential health facilities, or other allied health professions, e.g. in the field of
optometry, hydrotherapy, medical massage, yoga therapy, music therapy,
occupational therapy, speech therapy, chiropody, homeopathy, chiropractics,
acupuncture, etc. Make an annual check-up part of your 'masterpiece
maintenance' program.
Grooming & Personal Appearance
Element IV: The Human Being "You need not understand beauty to create
it...for me, the joy of creating is synonymous with the joy of living."
--James Hubbell
Painter & Sculptor
A neat appearance contributes to the positive impression you make. Remember
to present yourself suitably attired and groomed. A good clean appearance
bolsters your own poise and self-confidence as is a matter of concern for each
Family member.

Craftsmanship concerns itself with beauty in form as well as function. There is
nothing more pleasing than to experience beauty. And, while beauty is in the eye
of the beholder, a craftsperson never uses this as an excuse to pass of sloppy
presentation as a "type" of beauty. This is not craftsmanship.
Personal Care & Hygiene

"The primary material must be kept impeccably clean at all times to help it stay
in perfect working order."
One of the first things an apprentice learns upon entering the shop of a Master
craftsperson is the care with which the primary materials of the craft must be
handled. A master penman for example will teach an apprentice the necessity for
maintaining extreme cleanliness of pens and papers so as not to produce sloppy
work and to get the most out of the expensive and precious materials.

Personal hygiene is the cleanliness and care of your body -- the primary
material in your practice of craftsmanship. It must be kept impeccably clean at
all times to help it stay in perfect working order and make it pleasant to touch
and be near.
Our personal cleansing routines will depend a lot on the type of lifestyle we lead
including our diet and the diverse activities and occupations we perform. So
practice good personal hygiene to give a good impression to others and to feel
good about yourself.
Etiquette & Manners

"We are like the dancers in an ancient French square dance -- the quadrille -- as
we step in and out of each other's lives, back and forth, making fascinating
patterns with family members, friends, co-workers and others who cross our
paths in the course of a day. When we are the first to reach out with a smile,
friendly bantering, and an emanation of warmth and good cheer, our
relationships with others cannot help but be good. A flower tilts toward the sun;
a Human Being turns toward another warm and kind Human Being. The
similarity between good relationships and good manners is not only obvious --
the two are one and the same!"
-- Letitia Baldrige
Etiquette Master
Etiquette, the codes of rules that govern social behavior, probably takes its
name from the 17th-century court of Louis XIV, where courtiers were given 'une
etiquette' (a ticket), a list of elaborate rules prescribing acceptable behavior for
every situation that might be encountered at court. Louis himself wrote a book
on court ceremony. The earliest known book of manners is the ancient Egyptian
"The Instructions of Ptah Hotep", in which a father advises his son on proper
conduct.

Such books have been written in all sophisticated societies and reached a height
of popularity in 19th-century England and the United States, as the upwardly
mobile tried to remedy their ignorance of the manners of the rich. In 20th-
century America, books such as Etiquette, The Blue Book of Social Usage, by
Emily Post, have been perennial best-sellers. Although interest in codified lists
of behavior has declined in recent years, books giving the conventions for
weddings, funerals, and other formal occasions are still in great demand.

Beliefs

"The Shilpan (craftsman) should be one...delighting in the worship of God,
faithful to his wife,...true to his family, of a pure heart and virtuous,...constant in
the performance of ceremonial duties, piously acquiring a knowledge of various
sciences--such a one is indeed a Craftsman."
--The Shilpashastras
Sacred Indian Craftsman Texts
An individual's subjective knowledge (beliefs) about something determine his
or her attitude toward it. Generally, if most of an individual's beliefs about
something are positive, then a positive attitude will develop. The beliefs may
originate from a combination of direct experience, second-hand information, and
inference.

For example, a person might develop a positive attitude toward cigarette
smoking because peers praise the experience (second-hand information),
because the experience gives a temporary pleasure (direct experience), and
because the person wants to appear mature and develops the attitude that
smoking is an "adult" activity (inference).

Many attitudes arise early in life and tend to persist or be influential throughout
life. They are first learned from one's family, and the learning persists into
adulthood. Attitudes do change, however. Among the most important variables
in attitude change are the following: personality characteristics; the credibility of
the source of different opinions or of information countering the held attitudes;
group membership; and personal behavior that is inconsistent with the
individual's attitudes.

Beliefs have the power to create and the power to destroy. People have the
awesome ability to take any experience of their lives and create a meaning that
disempowers them or empowers them. Choose beliefs that empower you.
Emotions
Element IV: The Human Being "Wood has a life of its own...(it) always draws
me back; it's a lot more personal. I never cease to get goose bumps when I count
back the growth rings and find the year of my own birthday."
--David Hostetler
Woodworker & Sculptor
If you want to make your life really work, you must learn to make your
emotions work for you. You can't run from them; you can't tune them out; you
can't trivialize them or delude yourself about what they mean. Nor can you just
allow them to run your life.

Emotions, even those that seem painful in the short term, are truly like an
internal compass that points you toward the actions you must take to arrive at
your goals. Without knowing how to use this compass, you'll forever be at the
mercy of any psychic tempest that blows your way. The only way to effectively
use your emotions is to understand that they serve you. You must learn from
your emotions and use them to create the results you want for a greater quality of
life.
The Ten Emotions of Power 1. Love & Warmth 2. Appreciation &
Gratitude 3. Curiosity 4. Excitement & Passion 5. Determination
6. Flexibility 7. Confidence 8. Cheerfulness 9. Vitality
10. Contribution Return to The Human Being Topics >
Spirit

"I become timeless when I work with fiber. Each line, each knot is a prayer of
sorts."
--Lenore Tawney
Textile Artist
Spirit or soul is a term rarely used with precise definition in philosophy,
religion, or common life. It is generally regarded as descriptive of an entity
related to but distinguishable from the body--the spiritual part of Human Beings
that animates their physical existence and survives death.

You cannot touch it or readily see it. Like the wind which bends branches as it
moves through the trees, the presence of spirit is revealed in the effects it leaves
upon the world around us. It is essential matter for the life craftsperson.

As you grow, the need to express your spirit will grow with you. For many
people this means gathering together in common places of worship such as
temples and churches, or even a field or mountain top to meditate, pray, learn
and be with other people of a similar spirit. This is natural part of spiritual
growth and expression. It is as needed by men and women of all faiths as the
flower needs water to grow.

Early religions tend to associate the soul or spirit with the vital force in humans
and often identify it with particular parts or functions of the body (the heart or
kidneys, the breath or pulse). In Hinduism, the Atman (originally meaning
"breath") is the individual factor that is indestructible and that after death is
reborn in another existence. But Atman is identified with Brahman, the Source
of all things to which the soul ultimately returns when it ceases to have a
separate existence. (Buddhism, on the other hand, considers the concept of
Anatta, non-self.)

Early Jewish thought did not conceive the soul as existing apart from the body
except in the shadowy realm of departed spirits (Sheol). Greek and especially
Platonic thought divided humans into two parts: body and soul. The soul, often
referred to as the psyche, was considered both preexistent and immortal.
Philosophy has long been preoccupied with speculation about the existence and
nature of the soul and its relationship to the body.

Values

"Fine craftsmanship, rooted in tradition, is combined with original design,
complex methods of work, and valuable materials to create (a work) of lasting
significance."
--Ruth Dayan
Craftswoman
What are values? To value something means to place importance upon it. In the
case of your life, your values are the emotional states you desire and how you
conduct yourself to produce those states. Values guide our every decision and,
therefore, our destiny. Those who know their values and live by them become
the leaders of our society. To live life to the deepest fulfillment you must decide
what you value most in life, put those values in the order of highest importance,
and then commit to live by them every single day.

You must be clear about what's most important in your life. The skill of
effective decision making is the ability to determine what you value most within
a situation. When you know what's most important in your life you will be able
to measure any decision against your values. If you know what they are.

The direction of our lives is controlled by the magnetic pull of our values.
Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that you are crystal clear about what is
most important in your life and decide that you will live by these values, no
matter what happens. The tragedy for most people is that they know what they
want to have in the way of material things, but they have no idea who they want
to be.

Your values are the compass that is guiding you to your ultimate destination
and your goals are the points of interest -- the milestones along the way. By
using your internal compass intelligently there is a sense of certainty in your life
that you are moving in the right direction. Just like the navigator who constantly
refers to his compass to be sure he's traveling in the right direction.

Knowing your values clearly will help you to know why you do what you do
and how you can live more consistently with the values you desire most. Finally,
you need to realize that you are designed in such a way that you automatically
and unconsciously accomplish your highest values first -- this is the way your
personal compass works.
Understanding
To perceive and comprehend the nature and significance of all things
thoroughly by close contact and long experience is the highest value. Cultivate it
during your apprenticeship and you will have tolerance, compassion, good sense
and discernment and posses the virtue of intelligence during your journeywork
to make life's' discoveries.
Order
A condition of methodical or prescribed arrangement among component parts,
such that proper functioning or appearance is achieved; a state of sound
readiness. The Systematic arrangement or design.
Reverence
When you understand the order of things, you will stand in awe of the creation
and the Creator. Revere this greatest of all craftworks with the deepest respect
and esteem and you will achieve balance.
Balance
Understanding, order and reverence in turn produce balance...the harmonious
arrangement of elements producing a psychological and spiritual state of
equilibrium and stability. This brings Joy. Serenity.
Joy
Feelings of Joy are great pleasure, and delight manifest in happiness and love
producing Vitality the energy of life itself.
Vitality
Live, grow and develop spiritually, mentally and physically with the fullness of
energy, strength. Cultivate strong feelings of enthusiasm and intensity with
Focus.
Focus
Achieved through controlled concentration on a specific point producing
distinctness and clarity.
Commitment
The state of being bound emotionally or intellectually to a course of action.
Nothing of value in life is achieved without total commitment. Persist until you
succeed.
Achievement
The state or process of doing something in an empowering way. The act of
accomplishing or finishing something successfully by means of exertion, skill,
practice or perseverance. Positive Action. Seek and you shall find.
Craftsmanship
The application of skills with excellence and dedication to all that you do to
achieve the best you can. Be a craftsperson.
Personal Goals

"Sometimes it takes years--maybe five or more--before I decide what to do with
them (planks of wood). You see, there's a tremendous yearning in the wood to
fulfill itself. If I don't satisfy that yearning, the wood feels frustrated."
--George Nakashima
Master Woodworker
A goal is a clearly defined point -- an objective to be reached. Like a city on a
map, a goal is a destination to which one journeys. And just like a journey, once
a specific goal or destination has been reached, it becomes the starting point for
the next destination. Together, all your goals form a master plan -- an itinerary
for a well planned trip.

Life goals are like the destinations on a travelers map. They must be clearly
defined in advance of the journey. Otherwise you might easily get lost and never
find your way. You can decide how long you want to take to get there; either
very fast or at a leisurely pace. You can also decide how long you want to stay
there too before you go on to the next destination. Sometimes this is very
important because you may need to do certain things in your current destination
to prepare (like putting more gas in the car) before going on to the next goal.

The important point is this: a good traveler always plans a trip in advance to be
sure they know where they want to go, how long it will take to get there, what
supplies and tools (like a compass) they'll need for their journey and most
importantly to know when they've arrived!

For the smart navigator, clearly defined destinations; goals are prizes to focus
on. And once you've arrived safe and sound you'll not only know it, but you'll
have a great sense of pride in the accomplishment that you did it yourself!
But....with a lot of hard work, and commitment. So, goals are a vision for your
future of where you want to go and that clear vision will pull you like a magnet
through the toughest times. Create a compelling future!
Self Expression

"To master self expression, first study and learn who you are."
Self expression is defined as the expression of one's own personality; the
assertion of one's individual traits. The pursuit of self expression is one of the
craftsperson's most difficult and fulfilling tasks.

All your life you will seek to express yourself in everything that you do. In fact,
it could be said that the pursuit of making a masterpiece of your life is the finest
expression of yourself.

There will be many vehicles and many mediums through which you will learn
to express yourself. From the way you dress and speak, to artistic expression,
your career, and your relationships with the people you will meet during your
lifetime and more deeply, the relationship to your own inner self.

To master self expression will require that you first study and learn who you
are. Do not over complicate this task or you will miss the magic and the joys of
simplicity and spontaneity. Then you may choose to express yourself in a
thousand different ways. But; be content to master only a few of the many ways
of self expression or you will find yourself at last to be an apprentice of many
and a master of none.
Education & Knowledge

"Whenever I think my work is good, I look through some books of master
penman who lived three and four hundred years ago, and see how little I know --
and how much there is yet to learn."
--Rand Holub
Master Calligrapher
Knowing, learning and understanding will be lifelong pursuits in your
practice of LIFECRAFT. The knowledge of humankind is growing so fast and
there are so many things to learn and know it is more than any one person could
possibly keep up with.

For many centuries scholars have outlined a variety of different schemes to
classify the various branches of human knowledge. The way in which the
branches of knowledge have been distinguished from one another and related to
one another -- has changed remarkably from age to age. In antiquity, the view
was that the whole of human knowledge had a certain structure of related parts
or subdivisions. The organization of knowledge in medieval times was quite
different in its pattern. Later still other changes entered the picture; and that
picture has changed in important respects during the last century and is
undergoing further changes today.

To help you as a craftsperson in your life long pursuit of knowledge, the
following table is from the Encyclopedia Britannica's "Propaedia: Outline of
Knowledge" in ten parts, each of which is broken down into divisions and
sections. It is called "The Circle of Learning" because a circle is a shape in
which no point is either a beginning or an end and on which lines can be drawn
from any one point to the other. There are no impenetrable barriers to
communication or unbridgeable breaks in continuity. It is the idea that
knowledge is a single universe of many stars.
Career & Livelihood

"When you work, you must involve yourself totally. You can't be bored with your
work. Because if you are bored, you put that boredom into the fiber, it stays
there, becomes a part of that work. And that work then becomes everything you
were at the moment you created it. If you were aware, involved during its
creation, the work will be aware and involved. If you were bored, it will be
forever boring."
--Lenore Tawney
Textile Artist
The ability to plan is an essential LIFECRAFT skill. Like all the skills of a
craftsperson it is developed through practice and thoughtful preparation.
Planning for your future and your career is one of the most important types of
planning you will ever do. The word "career" refers to a person's entire lifetime
sequence of occupations, activities, responsibilities, and services performed.
"Career development" refers to those aspects of your personal growth and
development that relate to your preparation for a satisfying place in the world of
work.

Your career development actually begins early in your childhood. All your
experiences, including the games you have played and the activities you have
taken part in with family and friends, help to shape your personality and the
things you will want to express and be a part of in your life and your career.
Career planning is a step-by-step process that should begin when you have your
first opportunity for educational choices. The "Five Strategies" that follow will
help you to develop your plan for your career; an important component in the
craft of life.

1. Strategy One: Know Yourself
You are unique. No matter how much your talents, interests, and values may
resemble those of your friends or members of your family, there is still no one
quite like you.
2. Strategy Two: Personal & Family Goals
Because marriage and family life are very important to both men and women,
one day you will probably need to consider the impact your chosen occupation
will have on your family relationships.
3. Strategy Three: Study the World of Work
There are many ways to learn about occupations and livelihoods. If you are a
good reader, there are many good references available through your local library
and school guidance counselors to help you.
4. Strategy Four: Be a Good Decision Maker
Selecting your career objectives is one of the big decisions of your life. How do
you decide which of the more than 20,000 occupations you prefer? First, there is
more than one right occupation for you that would lead to a satisfying career.
5. Strategy Five: Take Help in Career Planning
Choose someone who you feel is understanding and talk to them about your
feelings and your concerns at critical points like selecting which courses to
study, or plans for future education, or choices between jobs.

Relationships

"It is better to make one thing right than a million things wrong."
--Willard Shepard
Ship Carver
Social interaction, or the mutual responses of two or more individuals, is
perhaps the most basic sociological concept, for such interaction is the
elementary component of all the relationships and groups constituting human
society. How people avoid bumping into each other on the street or how they
open and close telephone conversations, or the entire range of economic,
political, and other interdependencies among all peoples on Earth. However,
your relationships with people will fall somewhere between these two extremes.

Human interaction both creates and is governed by social NORMS--rules or
imagined models of conduct present in people's consciousness that guide and
control their interactions. Social norms are the part of culture learned by
members of a society. The laws enforced by the state are one kind of social norm
but by no means the only kind; FOLKWAYS, etiquette, rituals, and fashion are
also social norms. Not all norms apply to every member of society, for
individuals differ in the parts they play in interaction with others. When these
different parts become expectations to which people feel an obligation to
conform, they are called social ROLES--clusters of norms and expectations that
apply to different classes of persons.

Examples of social roles in various societies include those of son, wife, priest,
beggar, worker, friend, companion, spouse, parent, adult, child, neighbor. You
will play all these roles daily for the rest of your life. This is the way you will
relate to others. Skillfully managing relationships with others through the many
roles you will adopt during your life is one of the most important skills you can
learn.
Recreation

"...A toy in perfect condition is a pathetic thing. The toy which never knew the
delight of a child has lost some of the essence that gives it meaning and genuine
value."
-- Anonymous
Toy Crafter
Recreation is defined as refreshing one's mind and body after work through
some activity that amuses or stimulates. The goal is to bring fresh life and
energy to one's body and mind and spirit. Being a craftsperson means paying
attention to all the elements and all the details. And this means refreshing
yourself -- recreating yourself every day!

The possibilities for what you can do for recreation are unlimited! Almost
every activity you can think of is used as a form of recreation. And you don't
have to limit yourself to just one activity. Put some variety in your recreation
and try new and different things all your life. Remember, recreation means
refreshing your body, your mind and your spirit. You might choose mountain
climbing to recreate your body and exercise at the same time, reading or music
to refresh your mind and the fine arts of meditation, and relaxation techniques to
refresh your spirit. Or you just might take a hot sauna and a cold plunge to
refresh all three!

There are many different words which can help you to explore all the different
activities you can consider to help you recreate and refresh yourself. Try the
following list to help you get started exploring some new ideas about recreation.

Books
Element V: Tools for Living "Books are an excellent instrument for organizing
and transmitting knowledge."
Books are one of the LIFECRAFT practitioners most valuable tools. A book is
a device for "freezing" and containing knowledge at a particular point in time. In
this regard, the Book is an excellent focusing tool as it has a defined beginning
and ending making it fixed and manageable. It is also an excellent tool for
treating a subject in depth. Books are the 'power tools' in your tool box.

However, this same characteristic can make this tool outdated as new
knowledge is discovered. That does not necessarily mean it is no longer useful.
Its capabilities and limitations must be clearly understood to determine whether
it is the right tool for the job at hand. Emerging electronic book formats now
allow authors to make updates to their books 'on demand', which helps to
remedy some of the 'freshness' limitations of earlier, ink and paper technologies.
But not the look and feel (and smell) of a finely crafted printed edition. Visit an
old bookshop and admire the craftsmanship found there. It just may leave you
speechless.

As a tool, Books serve both teacher and craftsperson as an excellent instrument
for organizing and transmitting knowledge as well as a reference which can be
turned to time and again. It is a highly versatile tool, usually portable and easy to
utilize in a wide variety of environments.

Care of this tool is very important in that it is highly susceptible to damage
from moisture, heat and rough handling. And each book can be very expensive
to replace if mistreated or lost.

Keep your most important books handy in your workshop or in your Tool Box
for easy access whenever you need them.
Periodicals
Element V: Tools for Living "Use periodicals in your practice of craftsmanship
as an excellent 'update' companion to books."
Magazines, journals and other 'periodicals' are issued regularly--usually
weekly, fortnightly, monthly, or quarterly--to inform, instruct, or entertain. The
word magazine is derived from the French magasin, or "storehouse," and
evidently was first used (1731) by the Gentleman's Magazine of London.

Although magazines cater to a host of diverse interests, most fall into one of
four broad categories: consumer or general, for segments of the general public;
trade and technical, with specialized information for readers in business,
industry, finance, government, and the scholarly disciplines; farm, for
agricultural interests; and little magazines, usually low-circulation,
noncommercial literary journals.

Throughout the 20th century magazines have been the source of a huge
diversity of subject and opinion, as growing audiences have sought to find their
interests reflected in one or another publication. Although special-interest
periodicals have existed throughout the century, since the 1960s the number of
magazines devoted to extremely narrow areas of interest has grown enormously.

Trade and technical publications have also experienced a refinement of
editorial focus, as the growth in scientific knowledge has created subdivisions in
many technical and commercial areas making periodicals a very refined tool in
your practice of craftsmanship and excellent 'update' companions to books. Keep
your most important periodicals handy in your workshop or in your Tool Box for
easy access whenever you need them.
Video
Element V: Tools for Living "You must be more selective than ever about the
videos you choose to watch and use."
Video has become a dominant force in the world today. We watch live and
recorded video everyday and millions of individuals and households own video
recorder/player hardware and software. Many are connected to Cable TV and
nearly 2 million families have backyard "dishes" to receive programs directly
from communication satellites 36,200 km (22,500 mi.) above the Earth.

Video is revolutionizing education and training, as we learn to use this visual
tool. Like other technologies, video is a useful, powerful tool when used in the
hands of an experienced teacher and craftsperson which can achieve great
results.

Because anyone can now make their own videos using a variety of hardware
and software, you must be more selective than ever about the videos you choose
to watch and use when "Make a Masterpiece of Your Life". Bad food for the
mind is like bad food for the body. If you consume too much of it, eventually it
will make you sick.

Keep your most important videos handy in your workshop or in your Tool Box
Audio
Element V: Tools for Living

"Understanding is one of the highest values of a craftsperson."
The sound of the human voice, the sound of music, the sounds of nature and the
universe. Audio tapes, records, compact disks, all these tools record or capture
sound.

As books are to the sense of sight, the audio tools of sound bring knowledge
and delight to the inner most parts of your being. In fact it has been said that;
"music is the natural language of the soul".

To use audio tools skillfully, you must cultivate the skill of listening. Hearing
and listening can be very different. Hearing is to acknowledge the presence of
sound whether it is someone speaking to you or music in the air.

Listening is understanding. Understanding is one of the highest values of a
craftsperson.

Keep your most important audios handy in your workshop or in your Tool Box
Computers
Element V: Tools for Living "Many times machines do a better job than hand
tools. But you have to know how to use them."
--George Nakashima
Master Woodworker
Computers are a very versatile tool. They are an extension of the craftsperson's
mind. They can store bits and pieces of information, from dates and recipes, to
managing the household finances.

Because of the wide variety of applications which the computer can be used
for, it makes it one of the craftsperson's most important tools.

Today, many craftspeople use a 'computer' as their Tool Box for accessing and
storing their most important audios, videos, e-books and other tools.
Additionally, today's personal computing devices tele-link communities of
people around the world into 'social' networks.
Time Management
Element V: Tools for Living [Craftsmanship is] "the heart beat of human time."
--Octavio Paz
Poet
The productive use of time through the day, the week, and the year, allows you
to achieve the life that you want for yourself and your family. But if you
constantly swing between periods of frantic and often useless activity and
periods of idleness and procrastination, you must learn how to use your time
more efficiently. Achieving even a modest level of craftsmanship in this one
area will dramatically impact your practice of craftsmanship. Take "time" to
learn this important life skill.

There are many fine organizations, books, seminars and tools available to help
you get the most out of your day - and days make up lifetimes. Consider using a
day planner system.

The Daily Planning Procedure as used in the Franklin Covey seminar:
Increased Productivity through Effective Time Management 1. Select an
environment free from distractions.
2. Review Values & Goals.
3. Review prior day's Daily Task List for any incomplete activities.
4. Review prior day's Daily Record of Events page.
5. Review today's prescheduled events or appointments.
6. Review Master Task List for specific activities for today's Daily Task List.
7. Write appropriate activities in the Daily Task List.
8. Update daily schedule from Monthly Calendar.
9. Review next few days' schedules to see what needs to be prepared.
10. Prioritize the activities (A, B, C).
Meditation
Element V: Tools for Living

"Self-discipline is an important characteristic in the practice of craftsmanship."
Meditation is a practice in which an individual trains the mind and/or induces a
mode of consciousness to realize some benefit, although it can be argued that
meditation is a goal in and of itself.

There are dozens of specific styles of meditation. The word meditation may
carry different meanings in different contexts. Meditation has been practiced
since antiquity as a component of numerous religious traditions and beliefs.

Recent investigations of mediation have linked it to increased intelligence
through physical growth of the brain. Researchers at Harvard, Yale, and MIT
conducted brain scans that reveal an increased thickness in the parts of the brain
that deal with attention and sensory input processing. Using magnetic resonance
imaging, they visualized variations in the thickness of the cerebral cortex of
experienced Buddhist Insight meditation practitioners.

Self-discipline, a trait linked to the practice of meditation has also been linked
to increases in IQ scores. Self-discipline is an important characteristic in the
practice of craftsmanship and in the development of the 'master craftsperson' - a
person engaged in or occupied by the practice of a craft, who may through
experience and talent reach the expressive levels of an art in their work and
what they create.
Glossary of Terms

Apprentice:
1. A person learning a trade or craft.
2. A beginning student of LIFECRAFT; the craft of living life skillfully.
Apprenticeship:
1. The specific period of time during which an Apprentice learns to comprehend
the nature of the raw materials of LIFECRAFT, and the skillful use and
application of the tools of the craft.
Art
1. A system of principles and methods employed in the performance of a set of
activities.
2. A trade or craft that applies such a system of principles and methods.
3. A specific skill in adept performance, conceived as requiring the exercise of
intuitive faculties that cannot be learned by study. LIFECRAFT is the art of
skillful living.
Craft:
1. Skill or ability in something, especially one's occupation or trade. Expertness.
LIFECRAFT is living skillfully.
Craftsperson:
1. One skilled in the practice of a particular craft. LIFECRAFT is the craft of
life.
Craftsmanship:
1. The skillful practice of a craft according to the principles of the craft resulting
in works of excellence.
Journeyman/Journeywoman:
1. One who has fully served their apprenticeship in LIFECRAFT.
2. A competent but as yet undistinguished Life Craftsperson.
Journeywork:
1. The second Phase of life between Apprenticeship and Mastery.
2. The many years of work of a Journeyman/Journeywoman toward becoming a
Master.
Life:
1. The physical, mental, and spiritual experiences that constitute a Human
Beings existence; particularly the interval of time between birth and death on
Earth. LIFECRAFT is a manner to approach life.
Live:
1. To conduct one's life in a particular manner.
2. To pursue, satisfying existence; enjoy life to the utmost. To live the way of the
craftsperson.
Livelihood:
1. The occupation, work, or other means by which one earns an income to
provide growth and abundance for the individual and the family.
Living:
1. Full of life, interest, and vitality.
2. The conscious act of practicing the craft of life.
Master:
1. One who has distinguished themselves through the skillful practice of
LIFECRAFT.
2. Qualified to teach apprentices and journeymen/women.
Mastership:
1. The authority of a Master.
2. The skill or dexterity of a Master.
Mastery:
1. The possession of consummate skill.
2. Full command of the craft of life.
Masterpiece:
1. The greatest work of a master.
2. Your Life.
Masterworks:
1. The third Phase of living.
Mentor:
1. A trusted advisor.
Mentorship:
1. The fourth Phase of living.
Science:
1. The observation, identification, description, experimental investigation, and
theoretical explanation of natural phenomena.
2. Knowledge, especially knowledge gained through experience. LIFECRAFT is
the science of skillful living.
Skill:
1. Proficiency, ability, or dexterity; expertness.
2. An art, trade, or technique. The aim of LIFECRAFT is skillful living.
Skilled:
1. Having or showing skill; expert.
2. Requiring specialized ability or training: a skilled trade: Skillful. Possessing
or exercising skill characterized by demonstrated ability. The final result of a life
lived the way of the craftsperson.
Return to the Life Planner TOC > To learn more visit:

Charles P. Collins, Author Biography "In creating . . . (a
masterpiece), the only hard thing's to begin. A grass-
blade's no easier to make than an oak; if you've once found
the way, you've achieved the grand stroke."
--James Russell Lowell
Craftsman It started one day when my daughter was about
8 years old. I realized the questions she was asking about
"where do we come from?" and "why is this the way it is?"
were requiring real answers. Answers that made sense. Not the simple 'fairy tale'
answers I could get away with just a few years earlier. And, at that moment I
came face to face with the fact that I didn't have the kind of quality answers I
really wanted to give her. After all, she is my daughter and I wanted to fill her
head with the best possible content I could find. And so it began.

Several years later I finished the work you now hold in your hands. Each page
was printed on beautifully bordered stationary, contained within a leather
embossed 3 ring binder. It was kept on the coffee table in the living room where
we could go together and find the answers to her questions. It was our family
'life reference guide' to things sacred and mundane. That was 20 years ago.

Over the next two decades, I travelled the world practicing my career as an
international business executive. My daughter received dolls from many
countries and in time, has grown into a beautiful young woman in her mother's
image. And soon, may start a family of her own with her new husband.

Early on, during the creation of this work it became clear that within these
pages were five other books listed on the next page, that precede this craftsman's
reference guide. In time these books will have to be written to fully complete
this work we call the LIFECRAFT Collection.
- * -
For Alejandra, to whom we gave the breath of life.

For Lourdes, from whom we receive the warmth of love.
- * -

Questions for the Author?
email me at: cpcollins@live.com
Griffon House Publishing™

The LIFECRAFT collection: Book 1 - The Apprentice - Phase I of 'Living
the Way of the Craftsman'
Book 2 - The Journeyman / Journeywoman - Phase II of 'Living the Way of
the Craftsman'
Book 3 - The Master - Phase III of 'Living the Way of the Craftsman'
Book 4 - The Mentor - Phase IV of 'Living the Way of the Craftsman'
Book 5 - The Way of the Craftsman / Craftswoman - 'The Pursuit of
Craftsmanship and the Art & Science of Skillful Living'
Book 6 - Making a Masterpiece of Your Life - 'The Craftsman's Way of the
Art & Science of Skillful Living'

Before You Go…
On newer Kindle models the very last page of this book offers you the
opportunity to rate this book and share your thoughts on Facebook and Twitter.
If yours does not, the Amazon.com link below will take you directly to this
book's page. If you believe the book is worth sharing, would you take a few
seconds to let your friends know about it by writing a review and sharing on
Facebook? If it turns out to make a difference in their lives, both they and I will
thank you for it.

Charles cpcollins@live.com - * -
www.amazon.com/dp/B00AEXED5G
- * -
Copyright ©1992-2012

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Making

a Masterpiece of Your Life

The Craftsman's Way of the Art & Science of

Part 2: The Material

A Life Curriculum Like a school curriculum, Making a Masterpiece of Your

Element I: Family Heritage

Element I: Family Heritage "The concept of "immediate family" acknowledges

Element I: Family Heritage

Element II: Family Management

Element III: Family and Personal Finance

Element III: Family and Personal Finance

Element III: Family and Personal Finance

Element III: Family and Personal Finance

Element IV: The Human Being

Element IV: The Human Being

Element IV: The Human Being

Element IV: The Human Being

Element IV: The Human Being

Element IV: The Human Being

Element IV: The Human Being

Element IV: The Human Being

Element IV: The Human Being

Element IV: The Human Being

Element V: Tools for Living

For Alejandra, to whom we gave the breath of life.

To learn more visit: www.facebook.com/MyLifeMasterpiece

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Akin to_ The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Tony Robbins, Oli Hille, Getting Things Done Making a Masterpiece of Your Life_ The Craftsman's Way of the Art & Science of Skillful Living ( PDFDrive )

Akin to_ The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Tony Robbins, Oli Hille, Getting Things Done Making a Masterpiece of Your Life_ The Craftsman's Way of the Art & Science of Skillful Living ( PDFDrive )