I use music, carpentry, and writing, to stay sane.
I know, I should probably specialize in one thing. It's the 21st century, after all.
But the 21st century is a little messed up.
And this is where my imperfect effort has led me.
Music...
...is a cultural force. It has been shaping and maintaining human society since the beginning. When we stop making music, and leave it to the celebrities, we get sick.
Join me in making music in the old way. In a circle, with everyone contributing, for a higher purpose.
I write songs and lead song circles to help us remember.
Carpentry...
...is a satisfying way for me to pay the bills. Many traditions say physical labour is a necessary part of a balanced spiritual life. On my good days, I'm starting to see it that way.
For 6 years, I've been providing clients with stress-free, affordable renovations and small building projects. Are you my next client?
Writing...
...is a great way to grow. It helps me navigate the long and mysterious path toward purpose.
If you're on a similar path, I hope reading my posts on Substack will be useful.
A bit about me
I'm Paul Barton, and I live in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. Here's a bit of my story.
I got a degree in jazz guitar, then I questioned the point of playing jazz. So I tried to be a pop musician, but that's a hard way to pay the bills. So I learned carpentry to make a living. But carpentry wasn't my "passion" (if such a thing exists), so I kept searching.
Searching for what? A sense of accomplishment? Meaning and purpose? Something important to do? Happiness? All of those things and more. All while somehow earning a living.
Along the way, I learned a few things. I believe I've found a meaningful way to engage with music (after I questioned the point of pop music, too). The more participatory and inclusive, the better. I hope you'll join me.
I've learned which aspects of carpentry I enjoy, and which ones I don't.
And I've learned that my obsession with meaning and purpose isn't going to disappear. For me, it's not a matter of finding the right career and sticking with it. I hope I can find a way for this obsession to help people (maybe you?).
On my music page, you'll find my philosophy of music, which I hope will convince you to sing with me sometime. You'll also find my albums, "community songs", and info about music mentoring and workshops/events.
My carpentry page should help you decide if you want to hire me for your next small renovation/building/woodwork project.
My writing page will introduce you to my Substack, where I post regular essays (and some poems) about purpose, the Bible, and daily life.