New here just wanting to say hi!

[Leftbehindblades]

Hello everyone
My name is brad and I'm 34 years old. Blacksmithing saved my life!!
Let me tell you a story! Don't worry I'll keep it short and sweet. I struggled with opioid addiction for 7 years and was in and out of rehabs multiple times but nothing ever worked. Until I was at a faith based rehab in the Appalachian mountains here in North Carolina for 65 days. I picked up a book "forged" by Liam Hoffman a fellow NC blacksmith. And I read that and started studying the craft and I came home built a wonky forge and gathers some scrap steel and started hammering, before I knew it ive been clean 2 years and fell better than I ever have and I owe it all to Liams book, the hammer, and the Anvil. If I hadn't picked up Liam's book I wouldn't be here today. I'm still a beginner but I will never give up!! Thank you for taking a few minutes out of your day to read my story!! God Bless! And forge on!
Wish to find someone here in North Carolina who has a shop and is willing to let me come sweep the floor in exchange for some wisdom in the form of lessons!!
Brad Letchworth

 

[taldesta]

Welcome, Brad.

The forums connect many diverse interests over a globe of landscapes here ... and I hope, along with you, that there is a connection here that you find for your passion.

In a world that is long-time coming to value the basics, I learn and learn ... and draw nearer to envying those who weld, forge, and hammer life into reality. Good grief, I would like to know how to weld and even just repair my tools, let alone make them! Good on you.

 

[22-rimfire]

Welcome to Blade Forums. I hope your smithing continues to help you stay away from drugs. You seem to want to stay clean and that is the most important facet of the rehab process. I wish you success in this endeavor.