I have to say, I'm shocked, humbled and overwhelmed by all of your supportive comments and stories of your own lives. I'm truly thankful to virtually meet such an amazing group of new friends here on KZread, Instagram and Facebook. It's intimidating to open up and start to get more personal with people I've, for the most part, never met. Thank you for being so respectful, now and hopefully, in the future. :). I plan to get much more personal and tell you more about my difficulties, failures and successes and I expect some criticism- I'm ok with that so please don't hold back. My wife says, rant is not the right word for my talks at the end of my videos. Any suggestions on what I should call them?

@SN-qu2gz

6 жыл бұрын

Dances with Wolves fireside chats?

@nunyabizness6967

6 жыл бұрын

My Self Reliance Cool video. Being a 5th generation carpenter I had always wanted to build a cabin in the mountains but that came to an end when I broke my back and herniated 2 disc in my neck. Im as good as Im gonna get now but not what I was so I enjoy seeing others do what I always wanted to do. Great job. 👍

@StorytimewithNanny

6 жыл бұрын

My Self Reliance opening up. :)

@Vladd7

6 жыл бұрын

Keep it up man!

@debham641

6 жыл бұрын

You are an inspiration to many. Love the videos. We will all continue to listen to your life lessons.

Reflection can be a great gift or a haunting enemy. I'd say you passed the test. Enjoying the build very much.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mary. Very true.

@albertabeaudry8691

6 жыл бұрын

If it is a haunting enemy because you just keep going over and over and over your mistakes and don't do something about them. Shake it off. Learn from your mistakes. And step forward. Start from today. Reflection is never an enemy.

Currently living in North Dakota and here and there I've seen old log style cabins here. More of a square timber with notched corners. But for the most part I'd call them a log cabin. Anyway I was talking to a landowner recently about one on the corner of his property and he told me that his 2nd great grandfather built it in 1890. The structure still looks level and solid after 127 years. I forgot to ask if it had been repaired thru the years and how long since. It's obviously been neglected for a long time now. Pretty safe to say that a log cabin properly built could stand far longer than the builder. I dream of building one and living a simple life. Dick Proenneke really is an inspiration for my dream.

you may "not be a carpenter" - but, you surely know common sense and have a practical knack for knowing how to do things. frankly, a "carpenter" might likely fail at this endeavor because it may appear that a person would have to live a lifetime of skills in order to build a log cabin. I've researched this topic for over 2 years - I've seen a lot and learned a lot - your undertaking is educational (everyone has something to add to the learning of others); entertaining; balanced and very enjoyable to watch and follow. Seriously. Thanks very much for producing all this and sharing it with us - I know others have commented how important it is to them as well - I speak for more than just myself.

You don't need to explain yourself to the haters. Nobody ever said your cabin needs to be perfect. It's YOUR cabin and nobody else's. If you are happy with the results and it stands 100 years, that's all that matters. Personally, I'd be extremely proud of what you have done if I were you. Good job. I know a lot of folks half your age who can't even make themselves dinner, much less a cabin. Good on you man! Keep up the good work and I'm looking forward to more videos. You have pioneer skills and the heart to back it up! Carry on...

So you didn't get a high school diploma, but you have a PHD in how to live my friend. I am happy for you and love your videos.

Thank you for sharing your personal story, your difficulties in HS, and shyness. From your previous videos I knew you were an impressive guy, but my impression of you has been enhanced. In today's world it is refreshing to see someone not playing the victim card, not afraid of hard work; instead saying this is possible and not making excuses. Inspiration? To answer your question - yes, most definitely. Looking forward to future videos.

I really appreciate you. Your humble and kind, and you've inspired me. Between my wife and I, we graduated college with over 120k in student loan debt. With a lot of hard work and dedication we now owe 60k and are still chipping away at it. Im 34 now, working in the corporate world which I hate. Our goal is to pay these loans off in the next 18 months and then focus on paying our house off (60k remaining). My goal is to be debt free and I'll look very much forward to doing what you are doing. In the meantime, Ill be practicing my cabin building skills in the backyard. Again, thank u sir. You are inspiring 👊👍

Bring trade schools back with men and women like this guy to run and teach in them. I appreciate the way he tells HIS story rather then preaching or bragging or... Obviously this guy was born to teach, one way or another. Thanks for the videos.

I am Asian woman so I try hard to be successful in my career ..I am not smart but I move on and high motivate myself..Thank for sharing your long journey 👏🏻👏🏻

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thank you. It sounds like you are on the right path.

I'm a lifelong woodworker self taught. I built a stick framed 24' x 40' stick framed work shop with zero experience. I too have found that I'm capable of anything I set my mind to. I recently retired, I'm 56 years old and don't have the strength or stamina that I used too, but i usually find a way to get done whatever I need to do. My next project is to build myself a small cabin in the woods. I like seeing that you use the traditional building tools instead of running a generator for power tools and a chainsaw. More power to you and keep on doing what you're doing.

YOU SAVED MY LIFE! I just want to say thank you for making these videos and sharing your information! You actually saved me from a lot of aggravation and pain! Lol I live next door to you in Quebec and seeking to do the same as you. I'm a newbie meaning i never owned any property, and the day before i was to purchase a small peace of land I saw your video on what to look for when buying land. You had mentioned to look for a "unorganized township". Low and behold where I was going to buy the land it was not one of those townships! This would've been devastating to me and I would've never been able to complete my dream of building a home to pass down to my daughter! It's amazing how a few words can change the course of someone's life!!! And how you can have profound effect on someone that you may never meet or even realize that you effected! So please continue to share your stories/information. Believe it or not, you are changing people's lives by doing what you are doing for the better! Thank you

@tbsnwbrdng7

6 жыл бұрын

Micheal Johnson what do you mean an"unorganized township"?

@PussyRealEstate

5 жыл бұрын

where did u buy land? i live in Quebec too

@artistaloca4

5 жыл бұрын

@@tbsnwbrdng7 May I suggest viewing Shawn's video; "

@tpstrat14

5 жыл бұрын

Wow. I knew I would find treasures of gratitude on this portion of youtube, but this... this warms my heart right to its core. Thank YOU for expressing this gratitude and I wish you blessings until the end of your days and always remember: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return. Therefore, always live as close to the "dust" (or earth) as you possibly can. Good luck to you. Are you going to build your own fireplace? EEEK!!!!!! Big questions to ask ourselves. Please give me a call any time (you or anyone reading this that feels the need for kindred souls with which to walk though life) 860-706-7313

@UUNITEE

3 жыл бұрын

True words💪

LOL, 54 year old junior English teacher... just mentioning tonight to a concerned parent on a home phone call how much I dislike forcing kids to get up in front of the class to present. Not sure how this video just showed up in my KZread line up, probably from all of the kayaking videos I've been watching since the beginning of last summer when I bought my first sea kayak here in Monterey. One of my favorite books growing up as a kid back east where I fished and trapped was My Side Of The Mountain, about a boy who leaves the "city life" and makes his home in a giant tree stump and lives off the land. Now, as I start eyeing retirement with my wife and living (mostly) off the grid, the idea of finding my own place in the woods and following up on an old discarded dream to build my own house someday, I've found my way to your wonderful channel. I've subscribed and I'll be watching more of the back "issues" I've missed... and maybe even thumb through one of my old copies of Walden. Oh yeah, one of the other pending dreams? To be a professional writer. Thanks for the videos and the reminders and the inspiration. Think I'll share this with tomorrow's classes. We talk a lot about following your dreams in there, too: Guess it's time for me to get goin'!

Great video, totally relaxing as I sit here recovering from a horrible illness. The perfect medicine. Thank you.

I just subscribed to your channel and i have to say what you said hit me like a ton of bricks. I am 50 yrs old, and i have been at my current job for 10yrs and i am miserable. I work 12 hr shift work and drive 1hr. 40mins one way to work and then back home. I have been trying to decide on whether or not to change jobs. It's scary at 50, but you have inspired me. Thank you for that. Change is always tuff, especially the older you get. You are a wise man. Thank you.

The talk around 17:00-24:00 was nice to hear, its nice hearings someones story and see that anyone can do anything as long as they take the time and spend the resources to learn and pick up a learning project, we all are capable of anything even to achieve our dreams just takes a effort and a little bit of courage. The only thing that can hold someone back in life is themselves.

We had a daughter that was shy - ended up singing the national anthem in Bush stadium and a CPA. I'm enjoying your videos - after 53 years as a carpenter I was shut down suddenly by cancer. Watching your videos are almost as good as getting to be there with you building it - and the food looks good too. You could have fooled me as to your carpenter skills. It's going to be satisfying for you to have this place to get away - beautiful scenery, etc. Thanks for taking the trouble to show the building process.

@yudhanegara

5 жыл бұрын

hope you getting well soon.

Awesome Shawn! Truly inspiring! Thanks for sharing part of your life with total strangers and as you said, "Your talking to a camera", and you're unlikely to evet meet the majority of us who what. God bless, what you're doing is great and for you and family to enjoy in the beautiful clean, fresh air of the forest.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Angela, it's a pleasure to meet all of you at least here in the comment section. :)

I have to say that after watching your videos for the last few weeks since I have discovered your channel, I have strengthened my convictions of what the true meaning of life actually is. This rat race that we all call "normal" cannot sustain itself for much longer, And the sooner we all get on the band wagon of self reliance the better off we will all be in the long run. I have been watching your videos thinking to myself that "I could do this" and how much I would love to try to build my own cabin/house. And then I find myself doubting myself and thinking how you must have been well off or something to that affect, to be able to be off work for all the time to build this, and purchase your property cash.It is very inspiring to hear that you have had your struggles and overcome them also. It makes it seem even more within my reach. Thank you for your inspiration and your taking the time to "red pill" us all, and show us how well within all of our reaches that this wholesome, happy, lifestyle actually is! Keep up your hard work and I can't wait to see the rest of the cabin! Possible good verbage for your "rants" would be : conviction,conference, deliberation, sentiments. Cheers!

This is the internet at its' best. Seeing someone superficially very different from you do something you previously had no interest in yet being able to relate to their personal story in a very intense way!

Someone can't say they can't build a log cabin they're stupid you give me life thank you I was feeling real down Sean you give me a couragement thank you I learned a lot from you

You started out the video by not talking for the first ten minutes but you ended it by talking for at least 10 minutes and it made the whole video for me. I enjoy watching someone build even if they don't talk a lot but your story sounds inspirational and I'm looking forward to hearing more about it in upcoming videos. What really amazes me is that you are doing the whole build by yourself without power tools. Those nature shots add so much too and I was expecting a shot to ring out when that deer appeared in the meadow. #MSR

I love love love the way you edit and no music with only the sounds of you working!!!!! It has a soothing effect and is very elegant.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thank-you. I like a mix - sometimes the music fits, and other times it takes away. I'm glad you like it.

Iv never subscribed to anything on KZread but i just did . Iv been a small town residential contractor / carpenter as was my father . Im 57 now and basically retired and have alot of the elbo , shoulder , and ect problems you have . Never hurt my back though thank God . I stumbled upon your video and just kept watching . Thank you for speaking and telling us your thoughts . You ARE a carpenter and actually have skills most modern carpenters dont have or dont use . You are an awesome person and very inspirational as is evident by the comments . What you are doing is wonderful . Thank You Sir .

I gotta tell ya man I stumbled on to your youtube channel, and I have been hooked ever since. I throroughly enjoy watching the construction of the cabin, your self reflections, and believe it or not I really like watching ya cook on an open flame or wood stove. It makes me long to be in the woods. My 6 year old and I sit and watch you work on the cabin, now he is always asking me 'has that man finished the cabin yet?, can we watch and see what he has done this week?'. So thank you for taking the time and effort you have placed in to this, it has been a real joy.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

haha, that's great. In tomorrow's video, I address the young audience directly and really appreciate that parents are showing these to their kids.

Thanks for opening up about your struggles. I'm at probably the lowest point in my life so far, so this bit of encouragement is very timely for me.

I am 55 and also have multiple spine issues and have been off pain meds for a year now after many surgery's since 1994 and I am getting stronger every day and I appreciate your video's and they are very inspirational as is Bossoftheswamps , seems the older we get we start to realize what is truly important in our lives and I realize where i'm at right now is all material but it does not make me happy , sure I have a nice pool home on a canal in Florida and folks keep saying how lucky I am but let me say I would sell it today and get out of this rat race tomorrow and I will as soon as I feel healthier and stronger . thank you for your time and energy and again your inspiration .

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

That's fantastic to hear you are making a recovery. I hear you on the shallow materialistic lifestyle - it's not nearly as rewarding as we all thought it would be. I'm hoping my daughters learn that lesson before they get too far into the easy life to get out unscathed. :)

@JDKvideos

6 жыл бұрын

52 here and can completely relate to your story...!

@robcaponesoutdooradventure8286

6 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for the info and lets live the dream before its to late and only wishing we did , you also be well and much love , peace and happiness !

Im not much of a commenter, but i felt obliged to say thank you. I clicked over for the log cabin, which is impressive and enviable, but as a 26 year-old who barely scraped through school and is very adrift in life it is so encouraging to hear about someone else who has struggled, and particularly who really got it going in their 30's. Thanks for taking the time

@jamesking5508

4 жыл бұрын

IF ANY MAN/WOMAN BE IN CHRIST THEY ARE A NEW CREATURE ALL OLD THINGS HAVE PASSED AWAY .....CHRIST DIED FOR OUR SINS HE WAS BURIED AND ON THE THIRD DAY HE WAS RAISED FROM THE DEAD IN THE FLESH AND SEEN OF OVER 500 EYEWITNESSES AT ONCE ..THIS SAME RISEN SAVIOR COMMANDS EVERYONE , EVERYWHERE TO REPENT AND BE BORN AGAIN TO ESCAPE THE FIRES OF HELL... COME TO CHRIST FOR FORGIVENESS OF YOUR SINS TODAY NOW IS THE ACCEPTED TIME FOR SALVATION...MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES FOREVER IN CHRIST JESUS

@JumbaGumba

2 жыл бұрын

@Nunix your understanding of Christianity is like that of a 16 year old. You probably watch too much tv

@JumbaGumba

2 жыл бұрын

@Nunix The sexual abuse scandal you are talking about was in the Catholic Church, but what do you know about the Orthodox Church? Don't be so certain of something you don't understand. I was a strict atheist for the first 24 years of my life, I know what it's like to have your world view, I lived it out in full and I can tell you it is all a lie. You won't know the truth until you humble yourself and pray to God. You are evidently in a lot of pain and darkness since you can make jokes about child rape like that, and I know you don't want to be this way forever. I pray you at least consider what I am saying

@JumbaGumba

2 жыл бұрын

​@Nunix Again you only demonstrate that you have misconceptions about Orthodoxy, those were all straw man arguments. I don't know what massacres and dictators you are talking about. Holy Monarchy is perhaps what you mean. Funnily enough you seem to overlook that in the last century, the bloodshed was on account of Godless regimes like that of the Bolsheviks through Soviet Russia, which funnily enough only came about after the Orthodox Monarchy was ended. Fundamental to Orthodoxy, we believe that Gods revelation to us in only accessible through humility and self denial, and is not attained through rational striving. We are helpless to understand reality unless we deny ourselves and allow God to enlighten us. You can speculate all you want about Jesus being just another 'spiritual figure' but the reality is that Christian and immediately adjacent non-Christian testimonies (Josephus, Tacitus, Phlegon) all support the Orthodox Christian teaching and contradict the cultish nonsense you believe. Ultimately, you won't understand reality unless you turn to God for help and let the Spirit guide you in all things. The entire second half of your comment sounds like a reference to modern protestants and catholics, so please do some research on Orthodoxy

@JumbaGumba

2 жыл бұрын

@Nunix Are you saying humility is not a virtue? ok dude … You still haven’t made any argument against Orthodox Christianity and haven’t even admitted that you don’t know anything about it. You just arbitrarily say that Christians wreak havoc on the world (when i clearly demonstrated the most recent catastrophes on earth we’re in the hands of atheists) and that scripture is unreliable. I guess you just heard that in some KZread video and didn’t decide to investigate it any further

I have been watching your videos for quite some time now and I have to say that you’re an inspiration to me. I am too old to start such a project now and I am also confined to a wheelchair, but even so you ‘allow me to imagine what could’ve been. When I was in my 20s the Alaskan pipeline project was in its beginning stages and I had given some thought to possibly going to Alaska, earning some money, saving it and perhaps buying some land to build something close to what you are doing. I was much too conservative to actually do something like that. Back in those days you got yourself a job, got married, had kids and you know the rest of the story. Initially I was a silversmith, but that was leading me nowhere, money-wise, so I changed jobs and went to work for the post office. I hated that job, but after 30 years I would have a pension. Now here I am 75 years old wishing that I had had the balls to be the man that you are. So thank you Sean for allowing me to dream of what could have been.

Shawn, you're an incredible inspiration. I'm a tradesman myself who's been looking for more than what's at the glass ceiling for most of us. Hearing a little bit of your story here and piecing things together from your site, It's taken some weight off of my shoulders that someone else, in close to the same situation that I'm in, has been able to achieve the success, freedom and life that I've aspired to have myself one day. I'd love to book a spot with you and Joe once your workshops are up and running, if even to only pick your brain. Keep up the amazing work and stellar content!

First, anyone can do what you do with "books, KZread videos" and I would add the right tools. Second, I love the photography in your videos. We own property in the western Adirondacks and your land reminds me of it. I miss being there. Lastly, I did not expect the ending to the video. I would never have guessed you never finished high school. I tell my husband frequently that having strong internal motivation is important. Many people have more education or experience but they don't have the ability/confidence to motivate themselves to greater heights. I enjoy your photography and cabin building journey but mostly your life insights. Thank you.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thank-you, it's always a risk to put yourself out there like I did in this video, but I'm glad I did and I'm encouraged to keep going with it. Good points too.

Watching your videos in reverse, from the present to the past, 4 years ago in this video, adds an extra spice to my watching you and your work, moving from confidence to more confidence, each episode. Hearing you talk in the last part, which I find very honest, I'm reminded by what I once read in the book "One minute manager" where it says "Everybody is a winner, some people disguise themselves as losers, don't let their appearances fool you". I agree 100% with your view about overcoming, outgrowing limitations. We can learn much from our failures, as long as we strive for the organisation of our well being, including all that lives around us.

I found your story by accident and you are an inspiration to my family. Thank you, thank you for your sharing. I may never live a log cabin, but do live on a farm which has an endless list of things to do and repairs. Sometimes I get down in what I have to do alone, but realizing others also have these tribulations keeps me going. I will be watching all that you share. God bless.

I am turning 30 next month, and your videos keep me inspired to stay away from debt and keep working hard so I can buy some land and build my own cabin. Hopefully sooner rather than later. Thanks for all that you do. I look forward to hearing your "story" in a future video.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

That's awesome Brandon. You are right, debt is a killer. I hope you get to do something similar too.

"I want to know that I´m on the right track"...with l02 "likes" and not a single "dislike" I think we can assume that most viewers find your unique combination of excellent, informative build videography and heart-warming openness as appealing as I do.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thank-you, and you are right, I pay attention to the dislikes and negative comments too and I'm always open to constructive criticism.

I clicked on your last video just to see what you would make. I liked it so much I came back and watched this video. I’m so glad I stayed and watched the last part. I can very much relate to your story. As a young adult I passed high school but failed terrible in college forcing me to get a trade which it window tinting. 26 now feeling like I’m not successful but your video has really inspired me to Persevere through. There most be more in store for me but I have to go get it.

THANKS so much for sharing!

Well done, you have my greatest respect. Not only for your cabin, but also for overcoming your shyness. I was also painfully shy in my youth. It persisted until I was quite late in life - 45 years old. Then something clicked and somehow I was able to be confident. I don't understand what happened. But now I am a confident man and I can deal with situations that previously I would have had a panic attack about. Anyway enough about me. You are fantastic, and you don't give yourself enough credit for your woodworking skills. You are great ! Glynn

Wow, found your videos the other day and ive been hooked. Im 31 and am going through trials of my own with health and finances and i find these videos truely inspirational. I one day want to build my own home and live simple with very little and appreciate all the small things that most people miss in the rush of day to day living. Thank you for sharing this small part of your lifes journey with us...and for sharing Cali with us too, such a beautiful dog with a great personality. Keep up the great work. Cheers

Write a book on your life's ups and downs...including reference to log cabin building...you just inspired me as I to failed high school...it took me ages to find my place in society...i became a floral designer(winning 1st place in Sydney's Royal Easter Show..like winning the super bowl)...i then dabbled in antiques and collectables,had a motorcycle accident that renderd my back kaput...i also have had extreme anxiety and depression all my life..but seeing what you've achieved and hearing just a snippet of what you've been through I find what you doing is very inspiring...and coming from someone who's had similar experiences as me room now a Chaplin helping people achieve and encouraging them to not listen to the people around them who are jealous of them,so they have to put them down to feed there own insecurities,i wish you all the success in the world..jr

Your videos are the only video's on KZread that i watch from beginning to the end , you Cabin is turning out Great and can't wait for the next upload !! Keep it up ....also thanks for sharing your life experiences !!!

It's true, "doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will"*. Thanks for sharing your message - it is a colourful reminder that, instead of staying at an unhappy employment and just surviving the weeks, we have the opportunity to live life and surprise ourselves. (*quote by S. Kassem)

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Well said. Imagine a life that you can't get wait to get out of bed to live each day.

My dad was a sheet metal engineer and he never got past kindergarten He had to work the fields. But he could do a trig problem in his head, super smart. School isn't the only way to learn. I think our nation may be waking up to that again, finally!

You and high school English are like me and high school Algebra! Took both 1 and 2 (more than twice lol) and never did pass either one. And now here I am working with a freshman who happens to be in Algebra 1. All I can say is praise God for online tutors! Because I still can't do it! I am trying to learn as much as I can along side my pupil so I can be of at least a little help. You sir, give hope to people from all walks of life! Society has a way of making people think they will be flipping burgers their entire lives without a diploma. Yes, it's a good thing to have, but some people can live very prosperous lives without one if they set their mind to do so and you prove that! God bless you sir! Have a blessed weekend!

As a young business owner I've had my fair share of anxiety and failure. Your story is very inspiring and delivers a powerful message. I've been told many times by people, I wouldn't be able to do it and through countless hours of study and learning from my own mistakes I've proven them and myself wrong. It's videos like this that reignite the fire. Subscribed.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

John Brotherson That's awesome. Good point at the end - it takes constant reminders to keep us motivated

Much respect to you sir !! Provider ,husband ,father I commend you and admire you nothing in life is easy!!! As my DAD would say the only thing FREE on this earth is the air you breathe!!! Thank you for taking us along your journey, keep the uploads coming!!! :-) :-)

This is more than inspirational, this is a calling for those who feel stuck in a life of financial servitude and know that there is supposed to be more to life. Nothing is more freeing in life than getting back to being self reliant. Thank you so much for letting your light shine, and creating a beacon of hope for those who are looking for a simpler, happier and more rewarding life.

Im binge watching your videos! I enjoy watching the build but moreover listening to your life stories & the advice that you give! Well done💪💪👍👍

I didn't finish school either due to chronic depression. I ended up going to college as a mature student and finished top of my class. I'm glad you've overcome your challenges. I enjoy your videos.

Your story very closely parallels mine. Minus the 7 figure net worth, but I'm only 30 so this was an inspiration. I graduated high school only because my parents forced me and it was at they very bottom. I am a great writer and I am told I am intelligent but I did not want to do the work in school. In two videos, you have become one of my favorite KZreadrs because I relate to you so well. I am utterly fascinated with survival and dissociating from modern society and being 100% self reliant and still cater to my vices. I have been fascinated with prepper culture for years and this channel just turbo boosted it. I don't know you beyond these videos but good luck, friend and know that you inspired me beyond belief. You definitely have a friend in me.

Tbh broo i’m glad i finally found a channel like yours , expressing what the outdoors and what u can really do with it . Great channel keep it up

Recently retired and twenty years older than you, your videos are giving me the inspiration and confidence I've needed and I'm going to try to follow your lead. Maybe not build a cabin, but something challenging for me to prove to myself I still have the fortitude and wherewithal to test my limits and do something I didn't think I could. Thanks Shawn, keep 'em coming.--Chris

I'm 15, enjoy working with tools and love your videos. I personally don't own a lot of tools or have too much knowledge. But I like learning from your videos and using that on my own 5 by 8 foot cabin( big enough to sleep overnight in) which I'm building with an axe crosscut saw and hatchet I've restored for about 60 dollars invested total

@bettylabonte

6 жыл бұрын

Young Woodsman keep it up young man, work smart and hard...stay out of debt and you'll be so much farther ahead of your friends and peers. I'm proud of you, please know that you're an exceptional individual and special in so many ways. Keep up the good work and attitude!

@redneckcouse3147

6 жыл бұрын

I was 15 when I built my first cabin

@langmoran3633

6 жыл бұрын

Good luck!

Following on with your advice, it's like that saying " A man that does not make mistakes, Can't Do Anything " Passion is also a key without it there is no progress? Success is measured by the value of its worth and when ones hard work is honoured from within you Know your on the right path.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Well said.

really is pretty inspiring my friend. thank you

Man, I have been struggling with things lately and that last speech at the end of the video really gave me a boost. Definitely helps me to put things in perspective. Thank you!

@jamesking5508

4 жыл бұрын

IF ANY MAN/WOMAN BE IN CHRIST THEY ARE A NEW CREATURE ALL OLD THINGS HAVE PASSED AWAY .....CHRIST DIED FOR OUR SINS HE WAS BURIED AND ON THE THIRD DAY HE WAS RAISED FROM THE DEAD IN THE FLESH AND SEEN OF OVER 500 EYEWITNESSES AT ONCE ..THIS SAME RISEN SAVIOR COMMANDS EVERYONE , EVERYWHERE TO REPENT AND BE BORN AGAIN TO ESCAPE THE FIRES OF HELL... COME TO CHRIST FOR FORGIVENESS OF YOUR SINS TODAY NOW IS THE ACCEPTED TIME FOR SALVATION...MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES FOREVER IN CHRIST JESUS

I just bought a piece of land from Lapland, Finland. My vision is to build something similar there. Videos like this, and people like you have been the source of inspiration for me. Thank you. -Juha

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

That's great Juha, good luck with your project when you do get started.

@lanceflanagan

6 жыл бұрын

Hope you video document the build. Id watch that!

@JuhaMustonen

6 жыл бұрын

Lance Flanagan, I will "vlog" the project. I did the first video about a week ago when I purchased the property. (So far my videos are in finnish language.) The plan is to travel there in the end of this month. I bought the land without seeing it, so it'll be an adventure just to find out what I got 😅.

@JuhaMustonen

6 жыл бұрын

Thank you sir.

@thumss

6 жыл бұрын

In Lapland? that sounds like Sisu at its best, props to you.

Yes sir, just discovered your great video this morning and what a way to start the day! Everything reminded me of the people I have always revered that taught me so much in constructing cabins, outbuildings and anything else that had to be done in the rugged blue ridge mountains of N.C. Very few were high school graduates but were bushmasters that always impressed me not only with their skills but humble and meek character. It was like failure never occurred to them, their was only the objective no matter the stumbling blocks in between. Thank you for sharing the resolve that should always be a vital part of the fundamental human spirit. Your cabin and location are beautiful....looking forward to your next video. Double barrel thumbs up!

i am a carpenter and you are doing one hell of a job. i havnt seen any power tools , chainsaws, i could not do what you have accomplished. great job...

Thanks for your honesty. I am glad that you could get out of this bad financial situation. One can see that you have a lot of experience. It is great that you make these videos now, this will give a lot of young people hope!

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Lilly, I hope so too:)

@Paradigm2012Shift

6 жыл бұрын

Hi Survival Lilly, fancy meeting you here. I really enjoy your channel.

@howielane8406

5 жыл бұрын

Absolutely. Young people these days have hope and the way they get the guidance from the hope is older folks sharing there life's story, The failures they had and how they overcame the failures. Failures aren't necessary all that bad. Failures are a learning tool that show us that we need to take a different approach to the overall goal. If we sit around and waller in self pity then we don't improve. Shawn had obstacles, but he kept on pushing. He is a testament to us all. Hope can be fashioned around to form a goal.

@artistaloca4

5 жыл бұрын

Absolutely!! As do you, Lilly!! Thank you for giving females a strong example of our potential. Rock on 💗

@presleygionet2957

2 жыл бұрын

P

Not only are your projects way cool and the cabin a wonderful project, your videos are so well done! The angles, the timing, the audio and even the editing. Well done!!!

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thank-you, I'm really enjoying the film making aspect on top of the cabin building.

Thanks for being open about your trials and wins in life. Love the cabin build

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thank-you and you are welcome.

Shawn, as a retired HS Principal, I declare that you have most definitely met all qualifications for graduation from any high school where I would have been employed for the 37+ years I spent as an educator. You have amazing talents, and accomplishments. You are encouraging me, with my many physical limitations, to do more than I thought I ever could. You are doing this for so many thousands of others. I truly enjoy what you are sharing with us. Thank you, Wayne Brown (mathbrown73).

Never give up on graduating. On May 27th, my father-in-law graduated from high school in Northern Michigan. He was 89 yrs old. He'd quit school in his senior year and joined the navy. He was told they would give him his diploma when he came back from the war. The school burned down and he never got his diploma. Long story short, he and several family members got involved with trying to get him a GED earlier this year. The school was so impressed with him (he worked 30+ years for the railroad, married his only love, had 4 children, 12 grand children, 12 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren) and asked him to come and talk to the students about his life experience and they would give him his GED. They decided after listening to him talk to the students that they were going to give him an honorary diploma. The seniors were so impressed with him that they wanted him to walk with them and he was the first one to receive his diploma. He made the local and national news. He turns 90 tomorrow. So it's never too late. LOVE watching your videos on building this cabin.

Good job on the cabin, but a better job on your reflection of life experiences. Anyone can do amazing things with conviction and a will to achieve. Thank you for taking us along on your life experience journey!

Sean, I have built timber frame mortice and tenon jointed frames for 25 years. The work your doing here is super. Nothing to pick at. Great encouragement for the initiates. Keep it up and I hope the fellow you mentioned makes it over the skill hump. I can relate, I did finish high school but did not finish a 2 year degree in college. I also flunked typing and I type with all my finger now and don't look at the key board, much. Our education systems are geared to one speed and some fall through the cracks at which point its time to pick yourself up and get going.

I love the quality of your tenacity, enthusiasm and honesty. Your videos are well documented. I started watching sometime in September when you were making tar, I did not know that was possible. You are inspiring...

Awesome job. My wife and I live in the country with alot of woods. I'm not a carpenter either but after watching I'm ready to try. Like you I'm not as strong as I was at 21 I'm now 53. Think I'm going to give it a shot. Thank you.

Thank you Shawn for your 'thoughts of the week' . I too grew up shy and spent hours, days, weeks fearing the speech we all had to write and present in front of the class in grade school every year. Shyness always stopped me from giving & showing my best. I fought hard to overcome this fear so I could play drums in bands in front of people yet I could never be at my best. Now at 47...I no longer worry or concern myself with what people may be thinking of me and I just do whatever I'm passionate about and I do it the best I can. Thanks for being an inspiration for me to just get outside and experience the outdoors and to share that with others.

Cabin looks great... and a good talk at the end. it's interesting hearing about how you created this life for yourself. Very inspiring stuff.

The last ~5 minutes or so are what really stuck out to me. I've been watching these videos to learn how to build a cabin, but I do enjoy the side talks about your general life experience. I'm 27 right now, and even though I graduated both high school and college (degree in CS) I can completely understand the painfully shy thing. To be honest, I'm not sure how I was able to overcome presentations and everything to earn my degree. Drugs probably helped more than I care to admit. These videos have inspired me to take on a new life "mission". I know you have a video on where to purchase land in Canada, but I live in the USA so I'm not sure how easy it would be for me to do that. I've looked around for places where I can get ~5-10 acres for under $30,000. I didn't want to be completely off the grid (still reliant on my own power and water, but with civilization somewhat close by) but I just want space where I can make of my life what I want to. I have my degree, but at this point I really think that the best way forward is to not worry about career advancement and just focus on getting out of my student loan debt and "retiring" to my land. Thanks for taking the time to actually record everything you're doing and share it for the rest of the world to see. It's a weird age to live in, being able to access this kind of information, and I think many only see it as entertainment. I see these videos as a way out.

Hi! I think this is my first comment ever on KZread. Here in Italy is about 4 o clock am and I can't sleep because of the hot temperature. I love my job but I hate to have to live in a big city such as Milan. I'm very happy that I found your videos tonight. Seeing you and your dog living in this beautiful log cabin in the canadian nature gave me a breath of fresh air. I just want to say to you that your work and your story are very very ispiring. It is uncommon to find someone so honest in a youtube video. Like we say in Italy: "tanto di cappello" to mean hats off.

@jamesking5508

4 жыл бұрын

IF ANY MAN/WOMAN BE IN CHRIST THEY ARE A NEW CREATURE ALL OLD THINGS HAVE PASSED AWAY .....CHRIST DIED FOR OUR SINS HE WAS BURIED AND ON THE THIRD DAY HE WAS RAISED FROM THE DEAD IN THE FLESH AND SEEN OF OVER 500 EYEWITNESSES AT ONCE ..THIS SAME RISEN SAVIOR COMMANDS EVERYONE , EVERYWHERE TO REPENT AND BE BORN AGAIN TO ESCAPE THE FIRES OF HELL... COME TO CHRIST FOR FORGIVENESS OF YOUR SINS TODAY NOW IS THE ACCEPTED TIME FOR SALVATION...MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES FOREVER IN CHRIST JESUS

My wife and I just missed our 22nd anniversary. A few days before the date we mentioned it, but in the heat of life, it took a couple days to realize we both forgot it. Congrats on your 21st! I took out a huge loan to get a doctorate, at the tail end of that process I started to have pretty rough symptoms of MS, of which I had been diagnosed about a decade earlier after losing some hearing and an MRI discovered lesions throughout my brain. I got my degree in 2008 just after the economy crashed. I got one solid year of work before I could no longer reliably walk. I didn't have any health insurance because I had an uninsurable pre-existing condition. I spent a couple of years mostly in bed until Obamacare provided a pre-existing insurance where I could afford to see a doctor after a decade of no health care. I've now been undiagnosed with MS, but have a mystery neuro-degenerative disease (which in all likelihood is Lyme, but you're not allowed to have chronic lyme in this country) that no neurologist/rheumatologist/cardiologist/radiologist and a string of general practitioners can figure out. Finally have a halfway decent doctor now who is at least ameliorating some symptoms, I can now walk more often and for longer periods of time. But I'm left with six figures of debt from school and no apparent way to earn a living. My family is now in a very vulnerable situation that I cannot figure a way out of. I write this as a cautionary tale to all of us type A go getters who have faced many challenges and conquered them all. There are boogey men out there that you cannot foresee, that are bigger and stronger than you ever will be. You can lose everything you love at any moment. Cherish what you have and give thanks to the Father for all that he has provided, as that provision can end at any time. TL;DR - you are in grace, and you should be thankful for it. I look forward to your story of how you turned your business around. I love stories of hope.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Bushcraft Beats Wow, that is touching. Thanks for the reminder that we should be grateful for the good things in our lives and that everyone is dealing with their own demons, some physical, some mental. We would be much better off if we had more empathy and compassion for one another. Good luck to you sir

Looking forward to hearing that story.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks, I'm looking forward to telling it and I hope it helps people with their own journey.

Jack Handey from Saturday night live used to call them " Deep Thoughts". I used to live near Watertown in NY. Just 30 miles south of Canadian border. Now I live in San Jose, California and I hate it. I don't know how I stumbled. Across your video but I watched it in its entirety. I was absolutely awe struck by you and your drive to build something useful and necessary, and without power tools. A lot of people in this world could learn a great deal from you. Who cares about 'readin, 'ritin, and arithmetic. What I learned is the intangible stuff you can't get in a classroom. You can only get it from listening. You now have a new subscriber too. Peace be with you.

Wow! I stated watching this video to see someone build a cool cabin and got much more. Thank you, subscribed.

This was an inspiring video. Thanks for sharing that important message. What an interesting turn of events.

Thanks for the video. You are an inspiration. Your honesty is refreshing. We have 42 acres of remote property we are developing and will be referring back to your videos many times. I think you should just go back and knock out that diploma, for no other reason to just do it. You obviously don't need it, but it will mean something to you. Good job all around!

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much, I'm happy to hear that. I've considered the latter, especially with two daughters just finishing high school.

While you are talking about your strengths and shortcomings, one thing you mentioned in relation to your age is your education level. I was a rebel in high school and thus was kicked out of the San Diego school system after the 10th grade. Fast forward to when I was 46 and in trouble and had a son who wanted to drop out of school and said: "dad did not finish school and he owns his own business". That struck a chord within me and scared me about what type of example I was setting. So, I decided to get my GED. I have always studied to learn whatever I can to use in my life. So, I hit the books and got caught up, especially in the areas that I hated and thus was lacking in, like math. Passed on all academics with 65% to 90% for each specific required academic and got my GED. This prompted my son to finish his schooling as he had already figured I was older than dirt and if I could do it, he could do it better. (Which he did, BTW). We never know who we can influence with how we live our lives and I know that I did not do so wisely for many years. I would suggest that may you might think on this and act in accordance with what you think is just. But one more thing I found interesting in my looking back is that I have always had a hard time finishing projects and this really helped me as this was finally one chapter in my life that I finally DID finish.

i think the cabin build is a great accomplishment. thanks for teaching us all to accomplish our dreams.

Outstanding video, your story is the story of the settlers of Canada and the USA effort and persistence of free people win the day. Thank you

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thank-you. This project has certainly given me a new appreciation to our settlers and it's amazing to think that our countries were built on the backs of those adventurous men and women. I would be honored to be considered in their company.

Watched all the way through, and clicked some ads too. Thank you for another informative and inspiring video. I always look forward to your next upload. - Mike

@zoiedee5341

6 жыл бұрын

TA Outdoors love your channel mike!💗

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

TA Outdoors Thanks so much Mike. You've been one of my KZread inspirations and I look forward to the day you sit by my fire for a "log jam" (or one of the other amazing suggestions people have for the rants/chats) 🙂

@TAOutdoors

6 жыл бұрын

My Self Reliance I look forward to it!

I have never shared anything like this for a video. I'm a 35 year old guy who feels like I'm at a low point in my life professionally and I have recently felt like I am in a hole that I cannot find my way out of. Watching you build this cabin and speak about your challenges and how you overcame them is tremendously inspirational. I thank you for this video and for your positive words. After watching this, I now feel like there is a way out, it's just a matter of pushing yourself to learn as you go along and to not give up as you build your confidence in your own abilities through hard work. Thank you.

i'm a 58 year old female and just want to say you are an inspiration to behold. Thanks!

Nice !! Can't wait to see the finish result !! Good job Shawn

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thank-you, I can't wait either! :)

Love watching this, reminds me of the story "Alone In the Wilderness". I hope you can show us everything you are going to do including, outhouse, water, electric/solar and all the things we never see on typical builds.

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thanks Ted. I think I'm looking forward to the entire rustic homestead setup as much as the finished cabin. Ice house, water system, cellar, smokehouse, stone masonry, the list goes on and on.

I am inspired by your story and I love your cabin and the fact that you are doing it by hand , this is something I would love to do . But at my age and physical disability’s the closest I would get to doing what you have done is watching your videos. This is not to say that I have resigned myself to never achieving my dreams. Just that I can’t go as far as you have and many others. I am very much enjoying watching your videos and dreaming about the things I can achieve however smaller but still dreaming bigger than I have ever dreamed before. Thank you for inspiring me to do bigger and to dream higher.

The comments that come toward the end of this video spoke to me and my situation. Thank you so much for saying them.

This video gives me hope and I can't wait till the next one

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

That's great to hear - we can all use constant hope and inspiration.

Love this video man, especially the part towards the end about overcoming your limitations. Very inspirational

In life there are few that you grant entry into your circle for various normal reasons. My wife and I have been watching your videos for a few weeks now and I have to say that you would be one of those select few. I wish you and your family all the best of health and especially your beautiful golden retriever.May she live forever! Be well brother.

@conniebucy2423

4 жыл бұрын

You scare me to death on that ladder!!! Invest in a good one please!!! Give Cali a hug for me!! Keep on keeping on!!!

I found your video randomly. I'm building my own ceder log cabin all by hand and have seriously considered starting my own business this past year. This video helped me out more than u know.

I appreciate your incredibly humble honesty as well as wisdom. You are a vault of very valuable life lessons that you've learned along the way. It's nice to someone with like minded views and see them coherently belayed so wisdomaticly

I live in New york city am 23 years old...Im so sick of the city and my goal is to buy some land up state...Its years away because I have to save up a good chunk of cash but you really opened my mind and the possibilities...Thank you for the motivation..I am at a low in my life with substance abuse and other factors like dropping out of college to pursue a career which blacklashed and left me empty handed...So theres a lot of work to be done, but seeing you at 47 and hearing about your setbacks and accomplishments it really helped me see the world from a different perspective...Thanks again, cant wait to see how the Project comes along at the finish

@mrks998

6 жыл бұрын

Thomas Ciringione hope you succeed in it

@doublew030

5 жыл бұрын

Hope you are getting closer to achieving your goal Thomas. Godspeed

@lloydnielsen8035

5 жыл бұрын

Don’t give up on your dream. You can do it! Thanks

Wow, what a awesome story of someone who became an overcomer! I was beginning to think that you were the perfect man of strength, vitality, wisdom, and integrity, who must have had a easy life, without adversity. Now I know the road you have traveled to get to where you are now. What an inspiring story you have to tell! Awesome! I think most all of us don't consider your talk at the end of your video's to be a rant. I enjoy listening to what you have to say!

I'm 22, studying biology, and my projecto before turning 30 is to build a cabin and actually live in it. I don't have a lot experience with those tools neither have the money to buy them right away hahahaha but with time and building the idea probably something will come up. Thank you so much!

Maaan Damn!...This world would be a much better place, with more people like you in it. & has become better by you being here now & doing what your doing. Honestly Brother. Thank you for your inspiration. I apriciate you. & wished I coulda helped u on one of those builds. Wow!....im not alone. Awesome Job thank you again.

you hope your doing sonething meaningful?? Dude.. dont be so hard on yourself.. this is amazing.. and by the comments i would say your inspiring many by the build and also by sharing your story.. sure you wont have many neighbors.. thats cause not many gonna do what your doing.. your awesome man.. keep it up.. and kudos to your wife.. for her support and standing behind you..

@MySelfReliance

6 жыл бұрын

Thank-you. And you're right about my wife, she's a keeper.

Truly you are blessed, good sir. I've been enjoying binge watching your videos. My husband and I are both into off-grid living and building and we each found your channel separately, and realized it a few days ago! You are an inspiration to me. I've built an off grid teepee, but it's nothing compared to the amazing things that you have done with your place and your property. Congratulations on getting to where you want to be!! Thanks for all the wonderful advice as well!!!

I enjoyed your commentary Shawn about your shyness but turning it around into success. I too was shy in school and until I was 40 and got the courage to go to nursing school which was my dream. I did extremely well in college and had a 30 year career in nursing. Yes you can do anything you set your mind to. I had even failed 7th grade in junior high. How humiliating. It was hard to overcome. God bless you. You inspire me at 73 to keep on trying to find happiness.