[rick-in-seattle]

Several years ago, I met a big man; he was a triple-extra-large indian.
When we shook hands, his hand engulfed mine like a childs tiny hand.
He was so big as to be frightening, so most people never got to know him.

The story of our association is too long to explain, but when he learned I was a woodcarver, he confided to me that he loved creating art, but his family had belittled him for it; saying he was wasting his time. Unfortunately this included his wife; the result was twenty years where he created nothing.

I tried to explain that he had a responsibility to create if he was given the gift.
I spent time with him, gave him tools and my wife bought him shirts that actually fit him (like I said, he was a big man)
It was incredible to see such big hands create such delicate works. He painted, wood-burned, and carved; birds were his favorite subject. He once told me that he had rescued a baby bird that had fallen from its nest. The bird remained with him (although free to leave) for its entire life.

I would hate to think that I had anything to do with his separation and eventual divorce, but his wife left him the responsibility of raising his children alone.

Our paths separated a few years back; but one day I received this gift in the mail.

It has been a while since Jim passed, but for some reason I had to write this.
I do know why, today in the mail I received a similar piece from another artist that I helped in a very small way. Thanks Kathy.

[Hi_Ho_Sliver]

Good show old man!

[Bob_in_TN]

Rick, Your story didn't surprise me one bit. You're not the type of person to blow your own horn, if you were, I would think that we would learn that you have helped a lot of people as you've gone thru life. I consider it a privilege to have known you on the internet for as many years as I have.

Bob

[rick-in-seattle]

Bob, the honor is mine.
I suppose we do have a bit of a history.



Off the subject somewhat;
I have known two large men in my time.
One was Jim Simon, and the other was a mountain of a man; when I first shook his hand, the full length of my hand could not reach the bottom edge of his palm, much less around it like it should. For those who have never met me, I am 6'1" 230 lbs.; not small by any means.

His Father had a cruel sense of humor; their last name was "Hard" and his dad named him Dick. All through school and at other times we are called by our last name first.

To my surprise, he was modest, friendly, quiet, and strong as an ox.
He worked at a boathouse and could pick up heavy 8 foot wood boats on the shore and drop them in the water by himself.
I would be hard-pressed just to drag them to the waters edge.

[squbrigg]

Rick Ferry......A Good Man

Your story of those friends doesn't surprise any of us that have had the pleasure of knowing you Rick. I enjoy your stories very much, and your friendship. Carvers are special people, touched by God.

Bob

[Thor]

Rick,
I agree with everyone that your stories are always worth reading and touching or entertaining. This one is another good example.
I am glad to see that you helped a gentle man find his creativity within and that it brought him peace. The image you shared shows his talent and your inspiration.
It is good to remember those who touched our lives, and now his story has touched ours.
Thor

[Kenny_S]

OUTSTANDING stories from an OUTSTANDING man.
My hat is off in salute to you Rick.

[MelNM]

Very nice tribute Rick. Its too bad his creativity was not appreciated by his wife. Could you imagine what things he could have created with the support of his family. Luckily he had a good friend like you there for him.

[Mark N. Akers]

Rick:
Very good tribute,and I agree people you help leaves a impression in our lives.

[Colin_Partridge]

Touching story and like all your other stories certainly worth hearing. It doesnt suprise me though from what I know about you Mr. Ferry it is only a small token of this man's appreciation. Knowing you, you supplied the encouragement and this man was really thankful. I remember just one thing that you put on one of the emails I recieved from you. Quote "Thanks Colin to the best friend I have never met" Likewise my friend I am proud to have you as friend, Jim Simon knew a good man when he met one.
Colin