The Carpenter: A Story About the Greatest Success Strategies of All

Chapter 13Chaos

Michael and Sarah were running around the house trying to get the kids ready for school when the doorbell rang. Sarah opened the door and the carpenter was standing there with his tool box in one hand and a handcrafted wooden heart in the other.

“Hi, I’m J. Emmanuel,” he said cheerfully and handed Sarah the heart, freeing up his hand so he could shake hers. “I made this for your family.”

“Thank you! What a beautiful gift,” she said, trying to act calm amid the morning craziness. “But I’m the one who should be giving you a gift. You saved my husband’s life and I can’t thank you enough.”

“Oh, it was nothing. It was my pleasure, and I’m just glad we are starting to build something great together. Do you mind if I get started? I know it’s early but I wanted to get a good start since there’s a lot to do today.”

“No, that’s fine. Come on in,” said Sarah as they walked to the family room and Michael walked out of the kids’ rooms with clothes in one hand, a backpack in the other.

“Hey, J. Great to see you,” he said, not really meaning it. “You’re here early, huh?”

“I know, I know, I just wanted to get an early start today. I’ll come later from now on but today there’s a lot to do.”

“That’s fine; whatever works,” said Michael, although he was glad J. wouldn’t make this a habit. “We just have to get the kids ready for school so feel free to do whatever you need to do. There’s water in the fridge and I’ll join you soon.”

For the next 20 minutes Michael and Sarah frantically ...