Blessings can take many forms, including disasters that motivate greater efforts. Given the current disastrous situation, I have come to appreciate the immense value of practical knowledge and experience, particularly through the contributions of the people around me. Their remarkable hands-on skills, real-world understanding, and expertise have become the foundation of our recovery.
This highlights the limitations of the theoretical knowledge often emphasized in today’s AI-driven era. In other stories and the book, I am close to publishing, I have outlined many things I have survived in my living-by-the-split-second lifestyle. I have recovered successfully from major injuries and continue enjoying full mobility and capabilities. I am firmly committed to aiding women’s causes because my best successes have come from my association with them. I am deeply indebted to the women who were willing to help out the guy who led the risky life that many times took him off the rails. I intend to repay them in any way that I can.
I tell my wife regularly that I could not do what she has accomplished. My ongoing suggestion to her is to acknowledge her achievements and give herself credit, as this recognition is often not provided by others. My wife’s journey exemplifies the power of perseverance and practical wisdom. This wisdom has enabled her to study in many unconventional settings over the years, earning her degree and setting a strong example for the children.
One of her most important contributions was her decision to participate in a summer construction camp. The course involved building an entire home from foundation to roof. She developed numerous construction skills while our son, a high school student, engaged in all the learning activities. That camp has been the foundation of his successful construction career and the numerous construction projects our family has undertaken in the US and France. Those skills now, if properly integrated into the needs of the AI Era, can serve as the basis of a very profitable, meaningful extension of his career. His experience, with the aid of AI tools, makes original design and the development of leading-edge construction techniques possible.
What has been demonstrated Through these experiences, and they have consistently demonstrated as a team, is the importance of tangible, experiential learning. Her ability to adapt and acquire new skills, like obtaining a Realtor’s License, Notary, and Census activity to create needed income, has been crucial in navigating financial challenges.
The son has become a repository of invaluable mechanical and practical knowledge. His expertise spans automotive repair, construction, and electrical work, making him a model of versatility in an age where professional experienced proficiency in such skills is becoming increasingly rare. It has been truly remarkable to see his ability, teaming with his mom, accomplish an entire major roof rebuild with minimal additional physical assistance. Their ongoing efforts are inspiring, and I have no excuse for not achieving the success I need to create.
2025 will be an incredible year as aging and many other things will continue to be redefined!! This comprehensive understanding of how things work is precisely what’s needed to counterbalance the “screen knowledge” of the AI era. Those who lack real-world experience and rely solely on potentially flawed digital information will be handicapped in their understanding. The contrast between this practical knowledge and AI-driven information is stark. While AI can provide vast amounts of data, it often lacks the nuanced understanding provided by hands-on experience. The younger generation, focused on screen-based learning, risk becoming “crippled by AI,” missing out on the critical understanding of how things physically work and interact. This realization has sparked my mission to recognize and promote the value of aged, practical knowledge. It’s not just about physical skills, but also about the holistic understanding of the world that comes from real experiences. This type of knowledge is essential for both physical and mental health and serves as a crucial counterbalance to digital knowledge.
Moving forward, we must prioritize teaching children practical knowledge, following examples being set by countries like Japan and Korea. Understanding how the world works on a practical level is vital for making informed decisions and solving real-world problems The Swiss Army knife, Leatherman, and other utility tools have become my symbol of this versatility and practical capability that should not be lost. I use them to remind me and others that true intelligence is understanding and effectively interacting with the physical world around us.
Reflecting on my journey, I have come to appreciate that my current challenges are a blessing. My awareness has increased regarding the critical importance of practical knowledge and experience required in an increasingly digital world.
As we navigate the complexities of the AI era, it’s clear that the path forward lies in balancing technological advancements with the irreplaceable value of hands-on, experiential learning.
The incredible support I have received has allowed me to dedicate significant time to catching up on the rapid technological changes that occurred during the many years I spent assisting with the COVID-19 pandemic and other social causes. I am confidently approaching 2025, knowing I can genuinely “Walk the Talk” of the Ageless Role Modeling I propose and effectively redefine aging, starting with my journey!
