Larry W. Milligan

   At 16 my first solo career choice was not well recieved. Answering a ad for "Sword Makers Apprentice, train to earn" is not a reassuring thought to your parents and sibblings. In reality it was way worse / better. I recieved little cash money but gained the most incredible life experience. I was given a trailer, weekly canned food shopping trip and 10 dollars for "fun" when I dared ask. I absorbed college tech books from the U of O at night. During the day I learned how to properly apply it in my work. I exchanged my labor for a home, a craft and a profound awareness of what is important to me. After years of study I received my master level and a couple years after, I inherited the sword shop from my spirit father, Rod Casteel.

 

My career choices since those days have been diverse and deliberate. Presently at 50+ I follow my creative interests and give my knowledge and skills without reserve to those that "truly" need it and want it.

  In my companies I endeavor to instill community, shared knowledge and I encourage continuous personal growth. I found that the uplifting emotional engagement with your creations for the benefit of others yields 2X the personal benefit for most humans. Honest and positive reinforcement given and personal responsibility taken. This is what I found fulfills my life. Helping others to make fascinating and new things is what I choose to do.