"I collect gems and minerals from the four corners of the universe."Already I know that my conversation with Ras Nolan is going to be about more than the arts and crafts he makes to sell in his little shop opposite the Buccoo Community Centre. Handcrafted jewelry and handbags, incense, oils and semi-precious stones adorn walls, shelves and glass showcases.
"I am into crystal therapy and the seven chakras, from root to crown. If you want your third eye to open, I know what to use," he tells me as he scrapes the insides of a small calabash into dark water in a bucket.He is preparing calabashes to begin working on 500 pieces in time for Carnival 2014."Calabash spoons, bowls, bottles, flower vases, napkin holders, mask faces...I will take calabash to a different level," he said.
There is always something to learn, even from the simplest encounter with someone. I note his focus. He knows what he wants to do and how and by when he will get it done. I think momentarily of my own life and the areas I want to take to the next level.Lesson 1: Focus and do it.Is he from Buccoo? No, Bethel. So why did he choose this Buccoo location for his shop?
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