25 June 2001, 15:10
<Mr_Magoo>I am not discouraged. I am still checking out all my options. Asking here was just 1 step in my research. Currently am between jobs, so research is mixed with job search 
"Decide what you want to do with the rest of your life, learn how to do it better than anyone else, then go out and do it."
"As one journeys through life, the pursuit of a dream is needed in order to maintain's one's sanity along the journey. Keeping that dream in sight makes the journey a little easier."
In your situation, don't give up the good paying job, with benefits, just yet. Especially with a family to support. Start learning the gun trade part time, accumulating both skills and equipment. Remember, if you are on your own in the gun trade, there is no medical plan, retirement plan, merit increases, overtime pay, etc. Everything has to come out of the shop receipts. Many days, shop receipts are zero and there are still bills to pay. How about that crown the dentist says you need that cost $1400? And if you botch a job, guess who has to do it over and pay for it, while generating no shop income?
If you still are interested, and need a little more insight, give me an email.
I love Ringo Star's song title: "You Know It Don't Come Easy."
[This message has been edited by John Ricks (edited 06-24-2001).]
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Ray Atkinson
I am not discouraged. I am still checking out all my options. Asking here was just 1 step in my research. Currently am between jobs, so research is mixed with job search