Retire of Craftman

This summer, one of the skilled craftsmen who supported Kadoya's factory announced his retirement.
He has been working on making leather products for over 50 years, and has made a living using only his "skills".
Although he has continued to work even after retirement, his skills have never diminished and he has remained active throughout his life.
To hone your “skills” such as trying, touching, seeing and hearing new things.
He is a man of "craftsmanship" who spares no investment.
This does not mean greedily adopting new methods.
A person shaped by a flexible and easy-going personality and pure curiosity.
I feel that it is.
This person is also my master who taught me how to sew one piece per person.
I don't want to lose such a talented person, so I asked him to continue his work.
My determination to reach this milestone remained unchanged, and I retired as of last month.
What was the life of a craftsman for half a century like?
I think there are various reasons, but from handicrafts that are a part of me.
I was both shocked and impressed by his graceful approach in a situation where he had no choice but to leave.
When you have to make a break due to reasons such as old age,
While feeling unsatisfied with my current career, I made the decision to call it quits.
Is it possible to step back gracefully in the same way?
I still can't really feel it.
The honest manner in which he works carefully until he is satisfied with the work, and the things that appear and disappear in that process.
Many techniques. He is a versatile person with a sense of creating things...
I once again realized that being able to decide on your own is one of your talents.

What I remember after leaving the field is how I always take on the challenge of work seriously.
A smile that contrasts with the spirited expression on his face.
He made people feel at ease with his natural sense of humor, and he was kind and considerate of young craftsmen and newcomers.
Now that I can no longer hear the loud laughter, I realize how important his personality was.
I feel it.
The other thing was when we were drinking and having a conversation, joking around as usual.
The look on his face full of pride when he said, ``I consider myself a craftsman.''
I can't forget it.

I learned many things including technology.
I will never forget to be grateful for the teachings I received firsthand and will pass them on to future generations.
Thank you for your hard work for a long time.
【Nakamura】