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I got an illness when I was 17, which greatly disabled me. I had to drop out of high school, and later abandon two attempts at going to college. Being around other people makes me ill, especially in close contact. I cannot get a license, work a normal job, get a S.O., or even work on my own fitness beyond keeping good (as possible) health.
Needless to say there was some re-evaluation of self worth. It took five years and I think it continues. My appearance is worth little, I am not charismatic, but I am very good at working with my hands. Before the illness I was skilled at welding. I had to abandon that, but I replaced it with sewing. I taught myself what I could about patternmaking, and have made a bit of money and lots of self worth that way. I repair tools for people, spending every bit I can on improving my shop. I find personal value in the machines and items I save from the garbage, and the satisfaction other people get from using them. I've fixed a dozen of my dad's old woodworking tools, so we have a very capable shop which we both use to its potential. Three years ago I started a blog of things I make, not for other people but for me. Since I have to work slowly, it gives me confidence to look back at an organized collection of photos. Now and then someone wants me to make something for them, or they complement my work, and that makes me feel human, happy.
