Remember, those of us lucky to have practical skills involving the use of both the brain and hands at the same time are in the minority and getting smaller!
I would rather employ someone who can DO a job rather than have paper qualifications.
Sadly, those that have the skills are becoming rare. Especially those of us who have a range of skills. Generally I have had the attitude "If they can do it, so can I"
A lot of times I've had to learn new skills because I haven't had the money to employ someone, therefor I have a greater range of transferable skills. But I'm also cautious through experience, if I have to do something new, I'll read up or ask questions first before attempting a new task.
Somethings can be bloody dangerous if done incorrectly, but perfectly safe if the correct procedures are followed.
It is our life experiences that will hopefully guide us.
Unfortunately in a way, modern expectancies mean that most people don't feel that they have to do things for themselves and that you have to get a qualification in something.
The repairs to the simple bicycle (even the more complex ones are still simple) are beyond most peoples capability because in this society, most haven't had to learn basic mechanical skills. You either get a new one or send it to a so called specialist.
I had to learn the hard way, if I wanted a bike, I would make a Bitza from whatever I could scrounge.
Necessity is the Mother of invention.
Still, kids aren't taught to touch things in school, lathes and similar are too dangerous, same with chemical experiments etc You don't get far in life without burning your fingers once or twice or getting a few cuts etc.
Any way, it's probably made me into the grumpy, bitter and twisted old git I am now!!
I must be getting old as I've started complaining to the council about things.............
