When you think of what has formed you into the person you are today, it’s likely that there are significant touchstone moments, like a wedding, a graduation, or the birth of a child. While big events like these can be meaningful and life changing, it’s often the quiet work, the mundane, and the everyday moments that shape us slowly over time, like a river slowly etching its course in stone. Dave Gunning’s tremendous song “Father’s Tools” shines a light on the dignity of such everyday investments.
The song is a part of Gunning’s 2022 album “The Same Storm,” so it’s possible you may have heard the song before. What’s new here is this recently released video to accompany the song. Gunning asked his fans to send in pictures and video snippings of their fathers, grandfathers, and father figures, and they did not disappoint. The heartfelt memories that were assembled roll as guitar and banjo set the tone before Gunning begins telling the story of the steady investment that his father made in him.
The chorus is catchy and feels durable like the concept it’s conveying: “Level, plumb, and square – meant to stand for years and years / Straight as a rule – with my father’s tools / He’s here I swear – when I’m working out there / There’s always something to do with my father’s tools.” Gunning eloquently details the caring way his father equipped him for life, showing that this isn’t simply an ode to the value of manual work, but a record of how his dad taught him lessons that translate to his own very different work. “He wore coveralls, plaid shirt and boots / I wear a necktie, shiny shoes and suits,” Gunning sings, before bringing home a contrast but also the relevance of what he learned: “But I use a handshake and my father’s tools.” And later in the song, he tells of how he intends to pass along the good legacy of his dad to the next generation.
A teacher and coach of mine imparted these wise words to me: “you are now becoming who you will one day be.” We each make hundreds of choices each day that shape us, and you can’t overestimate the positive impact that a caring father, grandfather, or father figure can make on your life. “Father’s Tools” is a rich expression of appreciation for those who, in their own understated ways, help us along to become the best of who we can be.
Photo Credit: Naomi Henderson
Matt Wheeler is a Lancaster County, PA-based singer, songsmith, stage-banter conversationalist, husband, & special-needs father. And an avid vinyl record collector, a purveyor of random facts, & tour-er of Canada (southern Ontario is a favorite destination). Ever since being introduced to Great Lake Swimmers' music through Pandora in about 2009, he has had an appreciation for Canadian music.
Matt's songs & stories, including his classic literature-based project "Wonder of It All," can be found at www.mattwheeleronline.com.
