Wall Clock November 2014: "Mastercrafter"

Mastercrafter 1960's clock

I've come to the realization that I'm done with a very important stage of my life. A stage that started nearly 8 years ago when I decided to renovate and refurbish my mind.

As entered college in my late 20's, the goal was to understand the causes of human behavior in order to rework my limitations, strengthen my weaknesses, and heal my mind. I had been through a lot leading up until 2006 - especially the tragedy of my brother's death - and while time heals, I still felt lacking in key mental areas including social and emotional confidence. My life and relationships were filled with tension as I struggled to find the right methods to describe my thoughts and desires. For these and other reasons, an education in psychology seemed a perfect fit.

So angry!

"But Matt! That's good and all. You are all healed-up-n'-junk, so good on you for that--I guess. But what in the world does this have to do with picking up your monthly clock? The last three things you wrote about were about clocks. I liked learning about Honduras even though that clock was lame and tacky but okay whatever, that was fun. And I liked learning about that dude that sold you that fake clock and you got scammed and stuff but lied to yourself that he was just feeling sad. And I liked last month's Ikea clock because you got it for like super cheap but then for some reason you wanted to give more money away, but whatevers. So what's the deal this month?! I wanna hear about your clock not your emotional struggles! You are depressing me and now I feel awkward. I just read a bunch of personal stuff about you--which is making me question my friendship/acquaintanceship with you at this point in time. Dude get it together and write about clocks."


Wow. Relax... Take 'er easy. I didn't realize you cared as much about the clocks as I do...

Donation Center!

Well okay, even though you were rude to me, you do have a point. The purpose of these monthly write-ups is to feature something about clocks that I enjoy and then donate them so others can enjoy them. So, since last month's clock was basically brand new, shiny, simple, and standard. After I donated it, I was looking for something unique and super old.

Orange flickering light!

I found what I was looking for in a 1960's Mastercrafters electric-clock shaped like a teapot. It's scratched and beat-up to hell and back, paint gone, rusty and dirty - but I think these flaws add some depth and maturity to it. After some research, this clock was originally painted a solid color mainly black, silver, or gold. I couldn't find any information about the popularity of this clock in its day but no matter clearly this little teapot has been around the block. Fifty years ago someone built this teapot clock, most likely with their hands, and the amazing thing is it still works beautifully. The second hand is still very smooth as it turns and the little orange light on top still flickers away! Do they even make clocks with little flickering lights on them anymore? If they do, I want to find them and touch them. This clock fits perfectly with my kitchen's 1960's beat-up-garage vibe.

Grrr...

The old clock came from an old man. A very private man with no email, no cell phone, and a restricted blocked land-line number. He wasn't a very inviting fellow and wouldn't let me within 10 feet of his apartment. He was short-tempered and irritable. He wore a large hat that hid his face -- and his intentions. He openly complained about his neighbors and their loud dogs and commented on the "obnoxious kids" getting ready for Halloween. But even though I disagreed with a lot of his political and social views, I still carefully listened and acknowledged every word he said. And I was careful to remain calm and neutral. Eventually, as I talked with him, I saw the tension release from his body. He paused more and gave me more space to respond and converse. He allowed me into his ears as he listened to my words. His face appeared more from underneath his hat and he looked at me in the eyes and cracked a smile once in awhile. I could see that I was no longer a threat to him. I gained some level of trust.

Only then did he go inside and get the clock.

And it got me thinking. In my past, this particular incident probably wouldn't have happened so smoothly. Before, it would have been difficult to find any common ground with him or to remain neutral and accepting of his views and general irritability. It would have been difficult to converse with him at all. My earlier methods may have even made the situation worse as I wouldn't have known or understood the causes of his behavior. I wouldn't have been able to give him the ability to see that I wasn't a threat. I wouldn't have known how to gain his trust. And I wouldn't have been able to change his attitude and behavior so quickly and so effortlessly.

Many years ago, I had a similar realization while I watched my sisters write my brother's obituary. I have vivid memories of them beautifully translating their thoughts into written words, while I sulked behind them, unable to assist in anyway. I was amazed at their level of composure and professionalism. And I was devastated by my weaknesses, ignorance, inabilities, and insecurities.

But with this pissed-off old man, my words had a great and immediate effect. With 8 years of education behind me, I was able to talk with this man with great ease, I was able to clarify my point of view, and understand in detail what the causes of his behavior were. I was able to use this knowledge to remain emotionally stable in the face of his irritability and opinions. And I was able to ultimately gain his trust. It proved my methods work and that I am on the right track with my education.

So.... I'm done...? Well, not exactly, I guess. I don't think I'll ever be "done" with learning about the world, improving myself and others, but I do think I can stop questioning my methods and my abilities. And I can move on from this stage in life, to another one. After 8 years of training, I can finally concentrate on working in the community to share my new found knowledge and methods. I can be more open to the idea of sharing my past with others - and helping them through similar problems.

My first step in this new stage is with a master's degree, to work in a part-time position at an NGO. To do this, I am currently looking at two educational tracks. The first track would be a degree in "Community Psychology". The second would be a degree in "Non-Profit Management". The former is more narrow in its focus and would utilize my psychological skills better. The latter is more general and focuses on the non-profit system as a whole rather than one specialty. I would love for others to share their own experiences and knowledge with NGO's and submit any advice or comments!

Till next TIME!