My first pipe smoke was about 18 years ago after a patrol in Iraq, Capt. Black through a Dr. Grabow. It was the only thing the mobile PX carried when it stopped through our camp. What a time of reflection I had in that moment. Now, it's my thing to do when reading a history book, watching a baseball game, or listening to old stories from matches860. Congrats on the truck, the land and soon to be child! God Bless you and your family
In addition to your reasons, I'd like to add the fellowship of other pipe smokers that I contemplate on while enjoying a bowl even while smoking alone!
Alan, I totally agree with everything you have said. I also would like to add its a "Time Of Reflection" on where I came from, how I got to be who I am today, and where this adventure is leading me. I like to sit on my farm and just smoke my pipe and enjoy nature along with my kids, but the most important to me is Jesus Christ and my family. Without him we have nothing. I will be praying for your entire family that everything goes as planned and your your newest addition is beautiful and healthy. God Bless You and your family brother!
Good day sir. thank you very much for your perspective on pipe smoking and what it means to you. I took up pipe smoking about 6 months ago. Woke up one morning with the urge to start doing this hobby . I am somewhat elderly, 71 years of age. Some of my kids are your age and I have 3 grandchildren. I was a professional educator for 40 years. Now retired and I run a home schooling setup with about 40 learners and very satisfying, even now in the winter of my life. My wife and I do it together. Your views have given me a lot of clarity and insight into why any one would smoke a pipe, other than to relax. There are many issues to ponder on and I now find that while smoking my pipe I start to reflect on them. I am from South Africa and over here we have many social, political and cultural challenges that impact negatively and positively on our daily lives. I really enjoy the Pipe Cottage so please soldier on! You are doing a great job! Kind regards. Johan Brink
Alan, first of all I’d like to thank you for The Pipe Cottage. It’s been a joy to listen to your perspective on pipes, tobacco and life. I started smoking a pipe in 2020 largely because the smell reminded me of my grandfather. A Peterson 302 that my son gave me for Father’s Day of that year. My wife also enjoyed the smell and never complained about it. In fact from time to time we’ed share a bowl in the evening on the front porch.That was until October of 2021. My wife went home to be with the Lord ( covid ). We were high school sweethearts and married for 37 years so I’ve never been alone since high school Brother, I too am a believer and I find great joy and comfort knowing she is now enjoying the magnificence of Christ Jesus our Lord in a perfect and sinless state! I now smoke alone. No more than a bowl a day and occasionally. It sure is amazing how many pleasures the Lord created for us to enjoy He is so good to mankind! It’s a shame more people don’t thank Him the way we should. I’ll also smoke while doing woodworking projects. It has such a calming effect and gives me something to do since things are so much different now.
This is the first time I’ve felt led to leave a comment. I’ve watch ever upload and this my friend, if I as so bold to call you my friend, has been the best one. If I was a Baptist I’d be yelling amen but as a Presbyterian I must nod my head. Faith , family, and country are worth more bowls than available. Christ bless your ministry here on RUclips and Christ bless your new little one. Though I’m new to pipe smoking, it means to me reflection and communion with my family and friends. Thank you for your video. It really was a blessing to me today.
What a fabulous statement on life. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Pipe smoking is a meditative experience. I've always thought so. Thanks for expressing it.
Pipe smoking for me deos exactly what you what you said in this video… I just picked up smokin /piping about a month ago donto alot of mental issues and I don’t like what dr. Has to say or jus pull it out.. the pipe is makin me realize the beauty in life … it’s teaching me to be patient … your videos and knowledge is a heavy influence on y smoking and that is making a difference in. My life I thank you very much sir.
My daughter is the middle as well…. And my wife drives a pickup truck. She loves her truck and laughs when folks tell her “ I love your husbands truck”. My first two kids are 15 months apart and my third is 3 years younger. I started pipe smoking this year, age 59. The Lord has been asking me to slow down. I began seeing over and over pipe RUclips videos popping up on my feed. Looked so relaxing and made me slow down and reflect. That’s how it started. I agree with everything you said. Thanks for sharing your heart. Excited for the newest addition to your family.
When I choose to “light a pipe”...it is firstly an intentional act by myself to inform the Mrs. and others that I am still approachable, should the situation warrant the approach. (However, I am seated with my pipe and smoking it). That is my non-verbal cue to those I know and love that I’ll be “away” for a bit, in my thoughts. Secondly, the three words that generally describe the moving cogs between my ears...1) A Meditation, 2) some Cogitation and 3) usually toward the end of my bowl...a spark of Activation. Certainly many of my sessions involving a pipe are not normally alone; quite the contrary, most often the “smoke” is with friends (close or just acquaintances) ... but the ending of my pipe...gathering the things, the quick clean and inspection of the bowl and briar...the “closure”. If there was a worthy thought or inspiration, when I am returning my “kit” back in it’s place I may stop at my desk and grab a pen, making a few entries into a journal or notebook to insure the fleeting thoughts are not forgotten. Did I mention I am a bit further along in age and move a good bit slower than my younger self. Mental prompting is a thing for me now.
Dear Alan, I HUGELY appreciate all you share with us! I find listening to you is a liberating experience (especially as I grew up in a home with Presbyterian parents who were very opposed to smoking). THANK YOU! Keep up the good work! For me pipe smoking helps me relax. I used to sit in my drawing room only when I had visitors, but now every evening ends for me sitting and enjoying my pipe!
Tobacco, cannabis and psychedelics all can be very useful tools for introspection and contemplation about your life and related matters when used mindfully and deliberately... The latter two of these often can be so in a rather overwhelming and uncomfortable manner of forcing you to look at something deeper that you may have been subconsciously avoiding, whereas tobacco smoked via pipe or cigar can offer a state of mind conducive to this as well, yet in a far more gentle, relaxed, and grounded manner.
Yep, also comes down to the individual utilizing such tools for doing so. Research and educate on tobaccos history as it was used mostly and related to more of its medicinal to therapeutic uses - including it being a good stimulation for bowel movement if you are having digestive issues, helps uplift and elevates someone spirits if they are feeling down, balance and grounds if you are over stimulated from external things. I myself enjoy a good cigar from time to time, hookah on rare occasions, and also a black and mild if wanting "more flavorful" Yet everything he expressed about the enjoyment of a pipe can go for the same as any tobacco use.
I've always been a very meditative/contemplative person, both inner-personally and spiritually (Catholic Christian). I'm not surprised at all that I eventually found myself loving pipe smoking. It really is a wonderful complement to my personality. I also love things and ways of bygone eras.
Well said Alan! I agree with all of your discussion points, because that’s largely how I feel as well. I don’t smoke a pipe every single day, as I can’t always make the time to sit down uninterrupted for an hour or more and give it the attention it deserves. However, I will make the time 3-4 days a week to either start my day off with a hot cup of black coffee and a bowl on the front porch, or end my day the same way with a pipe and a glass of of bourbon or dark rum in the evening. All the while reflecting on the days events, the things I need to get in order in my life or in my household, gratitude for my family and the blessings in my life, and occasionally remorse if I handled something poorly. In the mornings I love to see the world come to life with the sunrise, and a pipe in hand, and to appreciate the natural beauty around me in the wide open prairies, where I live as that ball of fire rises from the horizon into the heavens. In the evening, the sound of crickets, coyotes, and freight trains, and the sight of clear star-filled skies overhead, the Milky Way, the smell of hay and cattle blowing in from the fields near my house, all mingle with the pipe tobacco in a magical way to remind me how amazing our world is! Lastly, I enjoy the way the pipe harkens back to bygone days, simpler times. A reminder that adjectives like bigger, better, faster, stronger, more advanced are not always the best solutions to life’s challenges.
I'm new to pipe smoking. Many things have been chaotic lately. I'm always rushing through life and helping everyone around me with their problems and issues, and all of mine have been put on the back burner. I'm thankful I can be a servant to others, but oftentimes, I find myself so busy with work and everything else that my home and family suffer. They don't complain about it or anything, but I find myself rushing to get stuff done, and I feel that it isn't right. So I'm hoping it helps me to slow down, take some time for reflection on major things, and give other things my attention. I would love to have a few acres, and I'm hoping one day I will, but for now, I'll be happy with what God has blessed me with. I enjoy your videos and outlook you have it helps. Congratulations on the new child!
Mr Harrelson I do not smoke a pipe, although I have been considering it. I smoke cigars. I smoke for many of the same reasons you have given. It slows me down. I sit in a pleasant place and ponder. I find great satisfaction in dwelling upon the things of God. Being a man of few words I find it also greases the skids of conversation for me. My son and I have our best and closest conversations as we choose to have a smoke together. God bless you.
Pipe smoking is a great metaphor that all things all things live for only a period of time and that many of the moments captured during its short life exist forever in our memories. I sure hope my 3 sons grow up fondly remembering me and the time I spent with a pipe.
Happy to stumble upon your video today; I've missed your thoughtful words. Praying a safe and happy delivery for your new child. Setting aside time to contemplate on the big picture in a harried world is indeed a gift.
Thank you so much for sharing! Your thoughts, wisdom, and insights very much encourage me! I am 48 years old, and grew up very conservative, and Christian. Most of all I think I appreciate how you stand for Godly values in an increasingly troubling world. It can be difficult! Pipe smoking for me encompasses many, many things to be honest. I think foremost for myself is simply an appreciation of the art and craft of the pipe itself, and the history of it, how a craftsman thought of the design and made it. As I am smoking a particular pipe I think of those kinds of things. I have a Savinelli given to me by my late father, with whom I was very close, so that one is a special one. I think of him and all that we shared as father and son with that pipe. A pipe gives me the chance to quiet my mind in a world where so much demands our attention, and the onslaught never stops! Like you, I also think of deeper things and questions I have. Perhaps something I want to talk to our pastor or some friends about. Anyway... Thank you again and God bless you and your family!
Pipe-smoking matters to me for similar reasons as you. My pipe gives me a chance to slow down and get away from a present culture of immediacy. If you have read Michael Ward's book "Planet Narnia", smoking my pipe seems to bring together Jove and Saturn, joy and contemplation in proper balance.
Mr. Harrelson, I’d like to start by expressing a great deal of appreciation for your videos. I often times find it difficult to accurately articulate my thoughts, which you seem to do very eloquently. More often than not, I am in total agreement with you on many of the topics you discuss in your videos. I’ve always viewed pipe smokers as very well versed gentleman, who seem to always have their thoughts in order. This is what originally drew me to pipe smoking, although I never had any pipe smokers in my family, or in my life for that matter. I’ve found that since I started smoking a pipe, it allows me a time to inventory and organized my thoughts. Disregarding items that originally seemed important and heavy on my heart, only to realize that they are often insufficient of my time and worry. Inversely, while I’m smoking my pipe, I tend to bring issues of great importance to light, better allowing me to focus my time and energy to these topics. My wife, whom at first was hesitant of me taking up smoking a pipe, has come to agree that I have become more humble, focused, pleasant, attentive, and more accomplished since smoking a pipe. I believe that I could have reached these things without taking up pipe smoking, but I have to agree with you, that the pipe is a vessel that has allowed me to navigate to this destination more efficiently. Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts, and may you and your growing family be blessed. Your friend, Aaron Flint
Excellent video, my thoughts exactly. I am glad to have picked up a pipe. For me as a 23 year old it started as a tool to begin engaging in a lost tradition that brought debate and critical thinking - plus an awesome community.
On a physical level, a bowl is worth a year of so called therapy. When I am smoking a pipe my troubles do truly fade away. But my kind goes to a much higher place. I usually contemplate history and the books I have been reading or listening to. It is also usually in those times that I feel the most appreciation for what God has given me. A beautiful family on a home with property in the countryside. God bless.
Pipe smoking allows me to calm my busy mind and to focus on the here and now. When I step out onto my porch with a lit bowl and look over the farm we live on its a reminder that God is good and life is a blessing. Be still and know that I am God.
Congratulations and all the best wishes for the new little one! Much love from Germany! Pipe smoking has become a place of quiet reflection in a whirlwind of chaos for me - and I just picked it up on new years. The madness going on here in Germany, or worldwide for that matter, sometimes makes me wonder if I’ve fallen into the metaphorical Wonderland like Alice. So I am grateful to have found a temporary refuge where I can recharge and let the issues rest for an hour or two.
Thank you Alan. I was struggling for a while and then i find God and because of you the pipe. Doing great now. God Bless you and your family. Greetings from the Netherlands
Pipe smoking reminds me of grandfather and all the fond memories of him. It also helps me connect with a more simple time, hence the reason I usually burn an oil lamp next to me for light instead of the porch lights. Pipe smoking inspires me to want to read and write more and to think. Some of my best journaling and ideas have come whilst smoking a pipe.
I couldn’t agree more with your thoughts in this whole video. You just need to be sure you’re not using your time pipe smoking to be stressing out over your thoughts! There’s plenty of other times in the day to think about stressful things.
Great topic and video. I kept waiting for the camera to pan over to the passenger seat where we would see Malcolm Guite ! Perfect conversation and setting to have Mr. Guite
Pipe smoking is like St. Ignatius of Loyola’s Examine of Consciousness, so that’s what I do with it. I meditate and appreciate the little things and ponder the big things-family, vocation, home, life, etc.
Might seem strange but this inspired me to rise this morning and spend time with God and hearing what he wanted to say to me. Watching Pipe Cottage and Dry Crreek Wrangler School caused me to decide to take up the pipe. I bought a Meerschaum and a Savinelli 601 as starters and will try Amphora Full as it was the only seemingly decent aromatic ( from the description on the packet ) I could find in France, it's also expensive here in France 18€ for 50g. Not sure if I'll even like the pipe. I haven't even had my first smoke yet as I didnt want to rush into it but today could be that day. I certainly love the way you gents have inspired me on a new journey at 60 years old next month. Looking forward to hopefully enjoying many times of quiet reflection in the word. Keep on giving an account of the hope that lies within you Alan 😊
Hi Mairtin, as I am a pipe smoker of 40 odd years, I have to recommend something to you. Although I've smoked a loooong time, it's only in the last few years that I've found the perfect method of pipe smoking. It makes the bowl last a long time, produces a cool smoke, enables me to finally taste the flavour of tobaccos, and let's me relax with the pipe and slows me down. Search for the channel Muttnchop Piper, and watch all of his 'how to smoke a pipe' videos, especially the explanations of the 'sip' method. If you smoke using this method, it'll save you years of time and effort trying to get the perfect smoke. Good luck 😊
@@jeffreybarton1297 so the update is that the amphora full that I bought in France for 18euros (ridiculous price I know) was a complete disaster, almost enough to put me off. Not tasty, a bit harsh and couldn't keep it lit. Urs Portmann of Switzerland to the rescue where I'd been for the weekend 😀 Cheery, honey and rum and vanilla. Very easy to smoke and much more enjoyable. Thank you very much I'll have 100g of each. That should keep me in practice for while.
As a young Christian man now just having my 5th child all kids under 8 years old, this was a talk I needed to hear. Thank you Alan, every blessing to you in Christ. All things should be done to God's glory, Soli Deo Gloria
Great video. My brother in law said you remind him of me, highly flattered after watching this. Praise Jesus and you have a great attitude toward pipe smoking.
As a young man, it reminds me to put my screens away and think about my actions as well as inaction past present and future. Thank you for the great video. prayers to you, and yours during this time of growth may it continue.
Alan, I smoke one bowl a day, always in the evening before dinner with my wife on the patio. Sometimes with my son's and grand kids carrying on. It's always the part of my day I look forward to. Sometimes it's a time for reflection, sometimes for conversation, sometimes just to be present and sort of zen. And it's always enjoyable, and that makes it important. As far as kids go; two kids is man on man coverage, the third and you have to convert to zone. Good luck with the transition.
I started years ago while on combat deployments. Was a moment of peace usually enjoyed after some intense chaos. I picked it up again the last few years for much of the same reasons. It gives that pause, you have to make time. It's not an escape like a drug, but rather a method of slowing the pace just enough to see through the emotion of issues...celebrate the overcoming of things, and calmly making plans for the next tasks.
Thank you for the uplifting message. I was raised in a religious organization which controlled every aspect of my life. Taking up the pipe is one of the things I have done to celebrate my new found freedom since that is one of the many things which would never have been allowed. Blessings to you and your family.
Yes, i was raised in a very legalistic home myself. Pipe smoking would have been prohibited. So thankful for discovering God's grace and the freedom it brings.
You mentioned people being inherently bad vs inherently good just previous to this video. I remember thinking that I was not sure how I felt about that. I made a mental note of that and kind of filed it to the back of my mind to mull over awhile. Now here I am watching this video and you bring it up again. You make some great points and I have to agree with you. Just wanted to share that with you and tell you thanks for the food for thought. Keep up the good work. I really enjoy your content.
Alan, first of all, we consider you a brother even though we have never met. We have missed you & appreciate the integrity and boldness for your Faith that shines through & much needed in this upside down world. I have been a pipe smoker for 40 + years. As the yrs have passed the richness grows with other brothers as we share God's Blessings in fellowship, have devotions & relish in the peace & tranquility that stopping the busyness of life brings with a special bowl of tobacco. Counting our Blessings one by one as we all prepare for the eternal that is coming for all of us.
I am very new to cigars and my cigar buddy and I have enjoyed our time slowing down and enjoying a cocktail and cigar and learning how to turn off our brains and just enjoy the few moments we get where we dont have responsibilities and duties. A nice smoke and a spirit is one of the few things that forces you to do nothing else but enjoy an hour or two doing nothing else. We were talking about taking the another step and trying pipe tobacco. We found your channel and this along with your many guides and videos have convinced us this is a great way to slow down and we purchased a few pipes and found a shop that carriers some of the Peterson blends you recommended. I cant wait to give this a try and i want to thank you for guiding us in this direction.
I got into pipe smoking from Tolkien and medieval reenactment. Even though smoking tobacco isn’t a “medieval” thing but a new world modern thing, it was very fun to do around the fire after all the activities were done and the modern people left. I have to thank my dear friend Robert for the inspiration. As we would sit around the fire and laugh and enjoy our time together and with friends while he enjoyed his pipe. It also took my back to when I was a child and read the Lord Of The Rings books. A time of imagination and wonder. I only smoked a pipe probably a few times a year. And mostly at medieval events. All my pipes were cheap from a tobacco store. I did buy a pipe at a Renaissance Festival that I still use today. Usually I used churchwardens because of the LOTR influence. Recently, the last couple years, I’ve started delving into smoking a pipe more often and looking more into the proper ways of doing it. I’ve honed my technique of packing and smoking one. Muttnchop Piper Introduced me to the “breathing method” which I use a lot now. It did solve a lot of problems of heat and tongue bite and gurgling. In the last couple years by watching channels such as this I discovered the genre surrounding pipe smoking. The types of people who do it. The stereotypes. It really seems to fit with me. I am learning about “The brotherhood of the Leaf”. Which has set a fire to me for it, pun intended. I have always been a thinking type man. I think a lot about Spiritual things as mentions. I think a lot about the state of the world. Society. My family which is my wife and my children. It is teaching me, and watching videos like this, that I need to take time and slow down and think, reflect, pray, read, study, or just relax. I heard a quote several years ago that I loved. A man talked about men needed to get rid of the man cave and go back to having the study. Not a place to play and get away. But a place to go and meditate and read and learn. There is a time to play and blow off steam yes. But we as men need to get back into being men of contemplation and honor. Men of virtue. Men of God. To strengthen our souls and our hearts and minds as well as our bodies and not so much our pocketbooks. I have learned in my life that if you are not happy and content before you have money and possession you won’t be happy and content after you have them. Man is a spiritual creature first and foremost after all. To get back into the pipe smoking discussion I am finding I am enjoying trying new tobaccos and flavors. Trying new types of pipes. Almost all of my pipe smoking has been at home by myself but I do look forward to the social aspects of piping. I do enjoy good fulfilling and edifying conversation. I enjoy teaching and very much enjoy learning. Thank you for bringing up and starting this conversation. Manhood it seems has been under attack and we men need to come together and preserve our manhood. This entails discussions and bonding. God bless you sir and the work you are doing.
I myself fall into the category you mentioned of not being very religious but I can definitely agree with the sentiment of slowing life and contemplating our existence while enjoying my pipe(s). There’s nothing like my pipes other than my mindfulness meditation practice that keeps me present and thoughtful. The tobacco does taste better than simple mindful breathing though. Lol. Love the vids
Amen, Brother!! Since I started smoking my pipe, I have been able to sit and pray for 30 to 40 minutes. Before that, I could barely pray for 3 minutes. When I smoke, I have a view of Ozark woods in every direction for miles! (Garden of Eden). God bless you and your wonderful family. John
Alan, First off best of health and happiness to you, the Mrs. and your growing family. Congratulations on your new land purchase. It was a wonderful message today in taking pause to think about the important things in life. Although not a pipe smoker once in a while I will fire up my late husbands pipe to smell the aroma and reflect upon things. It was always a pleasure seeing him enjoy his pipe, I could almost see the gears in his head turning as he thought through or about things.
In the morning I enjoy peterson's early morning and a mug of coffee while I read and study. In the evening I enjoy a pipe and rest and think about things.
Blessings to you and your growing family! Addressing your question of how the pipe makes us reflect and focus, I was struck by one word that you used. Eternal. As the bowl diminishes, so does our life. Like a great pair of boots, jeans, etc. The enjoyment comes in the moment, but can last forever with our connection to grandparents, parents, children, and grandchildren. That "room note" that is often discounted on Tobacco Reviews is what our most precious possessions will remember about us, as well as our judicious advisory and guidance and parenting that we provide. Through thoughtful, reasoned reflection, we will take our turn at the wheel, as our forefathers did before us. The prayer, meditation, and peacefulness that the pipe provides creates that eternity. We are temporary, the tobacco in the bowl is temporary, our boots and jeans are temporary, but the Man you are, and the Family you maintain and build, and the "Room Note" you leave behind are Eternal.
This olde man (66) once again enjoyed learning, remembering, and thinking with you. Praying in Jesus name right now for you, your wife and your 3 young children. Be sure to share the name and photos of baby 3 at the right time. Thank you. Bill
Brilliant video! Congratulations on your imminent arrival! I have 3 children under 7. 2 of them are under 5. Smoking a pipe helps me be a better father, a better husband, and a better Christian man…. Been thinking about replacing my F350 - so definitely going to go and check out the Denali!
Another great video of thoughts to ponder! Pipe smoking allows me to stop and contemplate and ponder things eternal. I have shared the words of Rev. Dr. Malcom Guite, from one of your previous videos, "Opt for beauty not utility..." I mulled that phrase over as I smoked a pipe and have shared it with parishioners as well. Blessings on your new son!
Congratulations on your new child! I, too, feel that while there is beauty and artistry in pipes & tobacco, they are ultimately a tool for more important things like meditation and contemplative practice. At least in my world there is no such thing as a "quick pipe".
Alan, I could not agree with you more. When I sat down to a good pipe it is always out doors. In doing so, all the beauty of the outside becomes more apparent. Gives me time to thank our creator for the wonderous, beautiful, and functional world he gave to us. I use it for a lot of personal relationship with Christ time. I take advantage of it when sitting outside watching the smoker get up to temp. To me it is everything that has been described. A ritualistic hobby for taste / smell that draws you in to reflect and slow down. A gateway to this time is the perfect analogy. Every task requires a well tuned instrument to assist. I have 4 children 2 girls ( oldest ), followed by 2 boys. They are all al blessing, a learning experience, and a test of our compassion. I wish you and your wife well bringing this new little guy into the world. May the Lord shepherd, watch over, and guide you and your family. To the Harrison household, Take care and continue down the path you have already started.
At 61, I can address you as a young and say "thank you young man" for sharing your heart. I pray that the Lord will continue to bless you, and continue to mold you into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ our Savior! I pray that He will guide you to be His hands and feet to your wife, your children, your students and to the YTPC as well. Be strong and of good courage! God bless!
Amazing video yet again,I'm spiritual not religious & believe in simplicity,my favorite time are hiking,camping or fishing & sit'n down with my pipe reflecting on days past & the wonders around me,people go to church & speak of his wonders,I prefer to be in the mountains seeing his wonders
Great video Alan! I am also a father of 3 daughters. Ages 9,8 and 6. Being a father is the best thing in the world. Having a pipe is a wonderful time to reflect on life and enjoy some terrific tobacco. Take care and God Bless!
The "three-pipe_problem" ,found this online. Big Arthur Conan Doyle fan. Reading his books is why I started smoking my fathers and my grandfather's pipes. The full quote reads “it is quite a three pipe problem and I beg that you won’t speak to me for fifty minutes.” Thanks for bringing back those memories. Good day sir.
Love your perspective. I love the smoking experience as a whole. Now that I have grown in my skill as a pipe smoker, I’m going to be able to be more mindful of the things of which you speak and not just thinking about keeping my pipe lit!
I’m a new subscriber and this is the first video I’ve seen. I was made aware of your channel from Red tool house and as a cigar smoker I thought we might have some things in common. I appreciate your perspective on life and Christianity. My Dad and his Dad were pipe smokers as was my Father in Law. For some reason I’ve been drawn to cigars. I think the experience is similar. I feel that when I’m having a cigar I’m taking a break from reality, it’s like a 45 minute vacation. I reflect on the day, my life, things I’m thankful for, my goals etc. I think we have a lot in common. I’m looking forward to seeing more of your content and may even have to try pipe smoking. God Bless and keep it Smokey!!!
Alan, Always love to hear your views Thank you. My pipe smoking time is a time of reflection for me on how i have conducted myself and handled any issues or problems that have come my way during the week. I only smoke my pipe twice a week now instead of everyday and i find i enjoy it much more .
I totally agree with your perspective. It allows me to offer the incense of my thanksgivings for the day, the rising smoke of my daily prayers, the burning flame of my souls ponderings. If allows me to focus on my faith and my home and my family.
By now your son has probably been born. Congratulations and thank you for so much wisdom and counsel. ( Amphora Virginia blend in a corncob while listening to you)
This is what I want to know, you are purchasing 50 acres of land during a very extremely high inflationary period and you purchase a GMC that is obviously NOT cheap. What do you do for a living?
Congratulations. Boy, girl, girl here. Each addition just gets better! We will put your family on the Rosary chain for an easy and healthy birth. Again Congratulations and thanks for your content.
Great message. I filled my Peterson Deluxe with some Sleepy Hollow this evening after work. Sitting on the back porch watching the birds feeding at the feeders. Your video brought me back to when my wife and I were welcoming our 4 children into our home over a period of 7 years. Sweet memories we will cherish forever. Pipe smoking for me is a way to connect with those lost ways of living and the people who built this country as well as those who built me into the Christian man I am today. I find that an evening spent with an old pipe is like spending time with a good friend. I can unwind from the stress of my day and remember who I am and what’s most important. I watch all your videos and am trying to get my grown adult children to listen to you and learn to slow down with a pipe when they can. We had 3 boys and our youngest was our daughter. God bless you and yours!
I'm originally from New York and live in Indonesia now with my wife. Life can get lonely and isolated here. Christianity can be hard to exercise. But when I have a pipe, the world slows down for a bit, and I feel connected to others who share the same pass time I do. I learn to appreciate things as small as a cool light breeze, the smell of fresh air, or the melancholic sound of falling rain. As someone who is often judged for my pipe smoking, I appreciate insights like this greatly.
I really like the idea of a one or even two pipe problem. I dread those two pipe problems for sure. But just as surely I know that some dedicated thought over a couple bowls of tobacco has never failed me.
Thank you for the video. I have been a pipe smoker for less than a year. For me, pipe smoking slows me down. I live a very busy life and I needed to slow down and relax. It also gives me time to think, and reflect about many of life’s decisions. It truly has made an impact upon my life and the life of others around me. Now I just need to find the right blend for me. I do enjoy trying different blends as it’s a perk of the hobby and opens myself to try other things in life as well. Thank you for your videos.
I do love springtime and now the opportunity to get out in God's creation to enjoy a bowl of good tobacco. I am a long time cigar smoker who started pipe smoking about a year ago. A cigar is a longer time commitment of about 1 hour plus. So now I can enjoy a shorter smoke when time avails. I agree it is a time of meditation and reflection. With a cigar I usually listen to classical music. With my pipe I likewise enjoy music and nature. I agree with your wise words and insight. Especially your acknowledging our need to commit all to our Lord Jesus. May God bless your family as you seek His blessing. Just wanted to add I will be 73 this year and I am a Vietnam veteran so I have much to reflect on as I retired 10 years ago.
Thank you for that honest and open look into your heart that I believe will resonant with so many of us! As I have grown in my pipe journey, I have been asked similar questions about why I smoke, and it’s taken me a while to hone in on an answer - which very closely aligns with your own!
I can relate with you on the subject of family and faith. We moved from North Idaho to North East Tennessee a month ago. We found out our forth child is on the way. Pipe smoking has given time for me to think about and thru all the changes. We didn’t know anyone here but I know God has moved us for a purpose.
I have done much research on Native American Spirituality, including the Sacred Pipe. Fr. Paul Steinmetz served as pastor for 20 years on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota. When he conducted the funeral mass of Ben Black Elk, son of holy man Nicholas Black Elk, he disconnected the bowl and stem and placed the pipe on the coffin to symbolize death. He then reconnected the bowl and stem to symbolize resurrection. That is powerful symbolism!
Cigar smoker here but the process is the same for me as well. I look forward to sitting down with a good smoke and simply organizing my thoughts and priorities. Thanks!
Well said, Alan. Like you, the time spent smoking my pipe has enabled contemplations that have helped me to become a better man. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and may God bless your growing family!
I’m thankful for the blessing you share with us. Congratulations on a new family member!! They are a blessing. I’ll have to admit, while enjoying a bowl of pipe tobacco, I tend to dwell on the fact that I can internalize “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” I’m thankful for what I’ve been blessed to take care of, I’m also very aware that our Lord said of Himself. “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head." I can easily be tempted into materialism. I’m in a much healthier place when I’m asking God for the grace to seek His kingdom rather than my own, to serve those He places in my path rather than serving myself. I can relax knowing that I’m not here to build myself a kingdom. I can “aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind my own business, and to work with my hands. I can walk properly toward those who are outside, and that I may lack nothing.”
I personally agree with you. Smoking gives me time to myself. I think, also, my wife appreciates the brief separation between us (excuse me while I pry my tongue from my cheek with a crow bar). I'm extremely pleased with the arrival of your new son. The joy this brings to your family and to the world is a unique blessing. May God continue to bless you and your family.
My pipe smoking brings me back in time to when I was young, and we would go for weekend getaways to my Pawpaws home place in south Louisiana and his brother would come visit And drink coffee and eat pie by the fireplace and light his pipe and tell stories from the olden days.
Thank you for giving credit, recognition and testimony for your faith. For 30+ years I've smoked a pipe, as my grandfathers did, and I become more introspective every day and try to learn something each time I light one of my pipes.
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My first pipe smoke was about 18 years ago after a patrol in Iraq, Capt. Black through a Dr. Grabow. It was the only thing the mobile PX carried when it stopped through our camp. What a time of reflection I had in that moment. Now, it's my thing to do when reading a history book, watching a baseball game, or listening to old stories from matches860. Congrats on the truck, the land and soon to be child! God Bless you and your family
In addition to your reasons, I'd like to add the fellowship of other pipe smokers that I contemplate on while enjoying a bowl even while smoking alone!
Sadr City was a fine time
Alan, I totally agree with everything you have said. I also would like to add its a "Time Of Reflection" on where I came from, how I got to be who I am today, and where this adventure is leading me. I like to sit on my farm and just smoke my pipe and enjoy nature along with my kids, but the most important to me is Jesus Christ and my family. Without him we have nothing. I will be praying for your entire family that everything goes as planned and your your newest addition is beautiful and healthy. God Bless You and your family brother!
Good day sir. thank you very much for your perspective on pipe smoking and what it means to you. I took up pipe smoking about 6 months ago. Woke up one morning with the urge to start doing this hobby . I am somewhat elderly, 71 years of age. Some of my kids are your age and I have 3 grandchildren. I was a professional educator for 40 years. Now retired and I run a home schooling setup with about 40 learners and very satisfying, even now in the winter of my life. My wife and I do it together. Your views have given me a lot of clarity and insight into why any one would smoke a pipe, other than to relax. There are many issues to ponder on and I now find that while smoking my pipe I start to reflect on them. I am from South Africa and over here we have many social, political and cultural challenges that impact negatively and positively on our daily lives. I really enjoy the Pipe Cottage so please soldier on! You are doing a great job! Kind regards. Johan Brink
Thank you, Alan. As a young Christian man, it’s a blessing to be able to hear your wisdom.
Stay the coarse brother.
Alan, first of all I’d like to thank you for The Pipe Cottage. It’s been a joy to listen to your perspective on pipes, tobacco and life.
I started smoking a pipe in 2020 largely because the smell reminded me of my grandfather. A Peterson 302 that my son gave me for Father’s Day of that year. My wife also enjoyed the smell and never complained about it. In fact from time to time we’ed share a bowl in the evening on the front porch.That was until October of 2021. My wife went home to be with the Lord ( covid ). We were high school sweethearts and married for 37 years so I’ve never been alone since high school
Brother, I too am a believer and I find great joy and comfort knowing she is now enjoying the magnificence of Christ Jesus our Lord in a perfect and sinless state!
I now smoke alone. No more than a bowl a day and occasionally. It sure is amazing how many pleasures the Lord created for us to enjoy He is so good to mankind! It’s a shame more people don’t thank Him the way we should.
I’ll also smoke while doing woodworking projects. It has such a calming effect and gives me something to do since things are so much different now.
This is the first time I’ve felt led to leave a comment. I’ve watch ever upload and this my friend, if I as so bold to call you my friend, has been the best one. If I was a Baptist I’d be yelling amen but as a Presbyterian I must nod my head. Faith , family, and country are worth more bowls than available. Christ bless your ministry here on RUclips and Christ bless your new little one.
Though I’m new to pipe smoking, it means to me reflection and communion with my family and friends.
Thank you for your video. It really was a blessing to me today.
Pipe smoking to me is about contemplation, meditation, and practicing devices of intellect. I truly enjoy your good word sir.
Amen to your every word…the Lamb reigns!😊
What a fabulous statement on life. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Pipe smoking is a meditative experience. I've always thought so. Thanks for expressing it.
Nothing like a Pipe and a good book and coffee! As a 67 year old, ain't nothing like it! Wisdom may just come with it...
God bless and be well!
DK
Pipe smoking for me deos exactly what you what you said in this video… I just picked up smokin /piping about a month ago donto alot of mental issues and I don’t like what dr. Has to say or jus pull it out.. the pipe is makin me realize the beauty in life … it’s teaching me to be patient … your videos and knowledge is a heavy influence on y smoking and that is making a difference in. My life I thank you very much sir.
I agree with you. I smoke a pipe since the beginning of 2023 but I have very similar experience and reasons why I smoke.
Greetings
My daughter is the middle as well…. And my wife drives a pickup truck. She loves her truck and laughs when folks tell her “ I love your husbands truck”. My first two kids are 15 months apart and my third is 3 years younger.
I started pipe smoking this year, age 59. The Lord has been asking me to slow down. I began seeing over and over pipe RUclips videos popping up on my feed. Looked so relaxing and made me slow down and reflect. That’s how it started. I agree with everything you said. Thanks for sharing your heart. Excited for the newest addition to your family.
When I choose to “light a pipe”...it is firstly an intentional act by myself to inform the Mrs. and others that I am still approachable, should the situation warrant the approach. (However, I am seated with my pipe and smoking it). That is my non-verbal cue to those I know and love that I’ll be “away” for a bit, in my thoughts. Secondly, the three words that generally describe the moving cogs between my ears...1) A Meditation, 2) some Cogitation and 3) usually toward the end of my bowl...a spark of Activation.
Certainly many of my sessions involving a pipe are not normally alone; quite the contrary, most often the “smoke” is with friends (close or just acquaintances) ... but the ending of my pipe...gathering the things, the quick clean and inspection of the bowl and briar...the “closure”.
If there was a worthy thought or inspiration, when I am returning my “kit” back in it’s place I may stop at my desk and grab a pen, making a few entries into a journal or notebook to insure the fleeting thoughts are not forgotten.
Did I mention I am a bit further along in age and move a good bit slower than my younger self. Mental prompting is a thing for me now.
Dear Alan,
I HUGELY appreciate all you share with us!
I find listening to you is a liberating experience (especially as I grew up in a home with Presbyterian parents who were very opposed to smoking).
THANK YOU!
Keep up the good work!
For me pipe smoking helps me relax. I used to sit in my drawing room only when I had visitors, but now every evening ends for me sitting and enjoying my pipe!
I agree with you. I reflect and also meditate. Most all of my creative thoughts occur while enjoying a good bowl.
Tobacco, cannabis and psychedelics all can be very useful tools for introspection and contemplation about your life and related matters when used mindfully and deliberately... The latter two of these often can be so in a rather overwhelming and uncomfortable manner of forcing you to look at something deeper that you may have been subconsciously avoiding, whereas tobacco smoked via pipe or cigar can offer a state of mind conducive to this as well, yet in a far more gentle, relaxed, and grounded manner.
Yep, also comes down to the individual utilizing such tools for doing so. Research and educate on tobaccos history as it was used mostly and related to more of its medicinal to therapeutic uses - including it being a good stimulation for bowel movement if you are having digestive issues, helps uplift and elevates someone spirits if they are feeling down, balance and grounds if you are over stimulated from external things. I myself enjoy a good cigar from time to time, hookah on rare occasions, and also a black and mild if wanting "more flavorful"
Yet everything he expressed about the enjoyment of a pipe can go for the same as any tobacco use.
I've always been a very meditative/contemplative person, both inner-personally and spiritually (Catholic Christian). I'm not surprised at all that I eventually found myself loving pipe smoking. It really is a wonderful complement to my personality. I also love things and ways of bygone eras.
Well said Alan! I agree with all of your discussion points, because that’s largely how I feel as well. I don’t smoke a pipe every single day, as I can’t always make the time to sit down uninterrupted for an hour or more and give it the attention it deserves. However, I will make the time 3-4 days a week to either start my day off with a hot cup of black coffee and a bowl on the front porch, or end my day the same way with a pipe and a glass of of bourbon or dark rum in the evening. All the while reflecting on the days events, the things I need to get in order in my life or in my household, gratitude for my family and the blessings in my life, and occasionally remorse if I handled something poorly. In the mornings I love to see the world come to life with the sunrise, and a pipe in hand, and to appreciate the natural beauty around me in the wide open prairies, where I live as that ball of fire rises from the horizon into the heavens. In the evening, the sound of crickets, coyotes, and freight trains, and the sight of clear star-filled skies overhead, the Milky Way, the smell of hay and cattle blowing in from the fields near my house, all mingle with the pipe tobacco in a magical way to remind me how amazing our world is! Lastly, I enjoy the way the pipe harkens back to bygone days, simpler times. A reminder that adjectives like bigger, better, faster, stronger, more advanced are not always the best solutions to life’s challenges.
I'm new to pipe smoking. Many things have been chaotic lately. I'm always rushing through life and helping everyone around me with their problems and issues, and all of mine have been put on the back burner. I'm thankful I can be a servant to others, but oftentimes, I find myself so busy with work and everything else that my home and family suffer. They don't complain about it or anything, but I find myself rushing to get stuff done, and I feel that it isn't right. So I'm hoping it helps me to slow down, take some time for reflection on major things, and give other things my attention. I would love to have a few acres, and I'm hoping one day I will, but for now, I'll be happy with what God has blessed me with. I enjoy your videos and outlook you have it helps. Congratulations on the new child!
Mr Harrelson I do not smoke a pipe, although I have been considering it. I smoke cigars. I smoke for many of the same reasons you have given. It slows me down. I sit in a pleasant place and ponder. I find great satisfaction in dwelling upon the things of God. Being a man of few words I find it also greases the skids of conversation for me. My son and I have our best and closest conversations as we choose to have a smoke together. God bless you.
I agree! I love smoking with my son!
5:41 : New pipe smoker here. I love your RUclips channel. Love your theology! HAPPY EASTER
Pipe smoking is a great metaphor that all things all things live for only a period of time and that many of the moments captured during its short life exist forever in our memories. I sure hope my 3 sons grow up fondly remembering me and the time I spent with a pipe.
Happy to stumble upon your video today; I've missed your thoughtful words. Praying a safe and happy delivery for your new child. Setting aside time to contemplate on the big picture in a harried world is indeed a gift.
Thank you so much for sharing! Your thoughts, wisdom, and insights very much encourage me! I am 48 years old, and grew up very conservative, and Christian. Most of all I think I appreciate how you stand for Godly values in an increasingly troubling world. It can be difficult! Pipe smoking for me encompasses many, many things to be honest. I think foremost for myself is simply an appreciation of the art and craft of the pipe itself, and the history of it, how a craftsman thought of the design and made it. As I am smoking a particular pipe I think of those kinds of things. I have a Savinelli given to me by my late father, with whom I was very close, so that one is a special one. I think of him and all that we shared as father and son with that pipe. A pipe gives me the chance to quiet my mind in a world where so much demands our attention, and the onslaught never stops! Like you, I also think of deeper things and questions I have. Perhaps something I want to talk to our pastor or some friends about. Anyway... Thank you again and God bless you and your family!
Pipe-smoking matters to me for similar reasons as you. My pipe gives me a chance to slow down and get away from a present culture of immediacy. If you have read Michael Ward's book "Planet Narnia", smoking my pipe seems to bring together Jove and Saturn, joy and contemplation in proper balance.
Mr. Harrelson,
I’d like to start by expressing a great deal of appreciation for your videos. I often times find it difficult to accurately articulate my thoughts, which you seem to do very eloquently. More often than not, I am in total agreement with you on many of the topics you discuss in your videos.
I’ve always viewed pipe smokers as very well versed gentleman, who seem to always have their thoughts in order. This is what originally drew me to pipe smoking, although I never had any pipe smokers in my family, or in my life for that matter. I’ve found that since I started smoking a pipe, it allows me a time to inventory and organized my thoughts. Disregarding items that originally seemed important and heavy on my heart, only to realize that they are often insufficient of my time and worry. Inversely, while I’m smoking my pipe, I tend to bring issues of great importance to light, better allowing me to focus my time and energy to these topics. My wife, whom at first was hesitant of me taking up smoking a pipe, has come to agree that I have become more humble, focused, pleasant, attentive, and more accomplished since smoking a pipe. I believe that I could have reached these things without taking up pipe smoking, but I have to agree with you, that the pipe is a vessel that has allowed me to navigate to this destination more efficiently.
Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts, and may you and your growing family be blessed.
Your friend,
Aaron Flint
Excellent video, my thoughts exactly. I am glad to have picked up a pipe. For me as a 23 year old it started as a tool to begin engaging in a lost tradition that brought debate and critical thinking - plus an awesome community.
On a physical level, a bowl is worth a year of so called therapy. When I am smoking a pipe my troubles do truly fade away. But my kind goes to a much higher place. I usually contemplate history and the books I have been reading or listening to. It is also usually in those times that I feel the most appreciation for what God has given me. A beautiful family on a home with property in the countryside. God bless.
Pipe smoking allows me to calm my busy mind and to focus on the here and now. When I step out onto my porch with a lit bowl and look over the farm we live on its a reminder that God is good and life is a blessing. Be still and know that I am God.
Congratulations and all the best wishes for the new little one! Much love from Germany!
Pipe smoking has become a place of quiet reflection in a whirlwind of chaos for me - and I just picked it up on new years. The madness going on here in Germany, or worldwide for that matter, sometimes makes me wonder if I’ve fallen into the metaphorical Wonderland like Alice. So I am grateful to have found a temporary refuge where I can recharge and let the issues rest for an hour or two.
Thank you Alan. I was struggling for a while and then i find God and because of you the pipe. Doing great now. God Bless you and your family.
Greetings from the Netherlands
Amen to what you said about the seasons proclaiming the Resurrection! All creation screams it!
Pipe smoking reminds me of grandfather and all the fond memories of him. It also helps me connect with a more simple time, hence the reason I usually burn an oil lamp next to me for light instead of the porch lights. Pipe smoking inspires me to want to read and write more and to think. Some of my best journaling and ideas have come whilst smoking a pipe.
I couldn’t agree more with your thoughts in this whole video. You just need to be sure you’re not using your time pipe smoking to be stressing out over your thoughts! There’s plenty of other times in the day to think about stressful things.
Great topic and video. I kept waiting for the camera to pan over to the passenger seat where we would see Malcolm Guite ! Perfect conversation and setting to have Mr. Guite
Pipe smoking is like St. Ignatius of Loyola’s Examine of Consciousness, so that’s what I do with it. I meditate and appreciate the little things and ponder the big things-family, vocation, home, life, etc.
Might seem strange but this inspired me to rise this morning and spend time with God and hearing what he wanted to say to me.
Watching Pipe Cottage and Dry Crreek Wrangler School caused me to decide to take up the pipe. I bought a Meerschaum and a Savinelli 601 as starters and will try Amphora Full as it was the only seemingly decent aromatic ( from the description on the packet ) I could find in France, it's also expensive here in France 18€ for 50g. Not sure if I'll even like the pipe. I haven't even had my first smoke yet as I didnt want to rush into it but today could be that day. I certainly love the way you gents have inspired me on a new journey at 60 years old next month. Looking forward to hopefully enjoying many times of quiet reflection in the word.
Keep on giving an account of the hope that lies within you Alan 😊
Hi Mairtin, as I am a pipe smoker of 40 odd years, I have to recommend something to you. Although I've smoked a loooong time, it's only in the last few years that I've found the perfect method of pipe smoking. It makes the bowl last a long time, produces a cool smoke, enables me to finally taste the flavour of tobaccos, and let's me relax with the pipe and slows me down.
Search for the channel Muttnchop Piper, and watch all of his 'how to smoke a pipe' videos, especially the explanations of the 'sip' method.
If you smoke using this method, it'll save you years of time and effort trying to get the perfect smoke. Good luck 😊
Go for it Mairtin! 💨
@@jeffreybarton1297 Many thanks Jeffrey. I have indeed been watching Mutton Chop and his advice is extremely helpful.
@@mairtinodiomasaigh2428 That's great! His method worked wonders for me, hope it does the same for you.
@@jeffreybarton1297 so the update is that the amphora full that I bought in France for 18euros (ridiculous price I know) was a complete disaster, almost enough to put me off. Not tasty, a bit harsh and couldn't keep it lit.
Urs Portmann of Switzerland to the rescue where I'd been for the weekend 😀 Cheery, honey and rum and vanilla. Very easy to smoke and much more enjoyable. Thank you very much I'll have 100g of each. That should keep me in practice for while.
As a young Christian man now just having my 5th child all kids under 8 years old, this was a talk I needed to hear. Thank you Alan, every blessing to you in Christ. All things should be done to God's glory, Soli Deo Gloria
Great video. My brother in law said you remind him of me, highly flattered after watching this. Praise Jesus and you have a great attitude toward pipe smoking.
As a young man, it reminds me to put my screens away and think about my actions as well as inaction past present and future. Thank you for the great video. prayers to you, and yours during this time of growth may it continue.
Alan, I smoke one bowl a day, always in the evening before dinner with my wife on the patio. Sometimes with my son's and grand kids carrying on. It's always the part of my day I look forward to. Sometimes it's a time for reflection, sometimes for conversation, sometimes just to be present and sort of zen. And it's always enjoyable, and that makes it important.
As far as kids go; two kids is man on man coverage, the third and you have to convert to zone. Good luck with the transition.
I started years ago while on combat deployments. Was a moment of peace usually enjoyed after some intense chaos. I picked it up again the last few years for much of the same reasons. It gives that pause, you have to make time. It's not an escape like a drug, but rather a method of slowing the pace just enough to see through the emotion of issues...celebrate the overcoming of things, and calmly making plans for the next tasks.
Thank you for the uplifting message. I was raised in a religious organization which controlled every aspect of my life. Taking up the pipe is one of the things I have done to celebrate my new found freedom since that is one of the many things which would never have been allowed. Blessings to you and your family.
Amen!
Yes, i was raised in a very legalistic home myself. Pipe smoking would have been prohibited. So thankful for discovering God's grace and the freedom it brings.
You mentioned people being inherently bad vs inherently good just previous to this video. I remember thinking that I was not sure how I felt about that. I made a mental note of that and kind of filed it to the back of my mind to mull over awhile. Now here I am watching this video and you bring it up again. You make some great points and I have to agree with you. Just wanted to share that with you and tell you thanks for the food for thought. Keep up the good work. I really enjoy your content.
Alan, first of all, we consider you a brother even though we have never met. We have missed you & appreciate the integrity and boldness for your Faith that shines through & much needed in this upside down world. I have been a pipe smoker for 40 + years. As the yrs have passed the richness grows with other brothers as we share God's Blessings in fellowship, have devotions & relish in the peace & tranquility that stopping the busyness of life brings with a special bowl of tobacco. Counting our Blessings one by one as we all prepare for the eternal that is coming for all of us.
I am very new to cigars and my cigar buddy and I have enjoyed our time slowing down and enjoying a cocktail and cigar and learning how to turn off our brains and just enjoy the few moments we get where we dont have responsibilities and duties. A nice smoke and a spirit is one of the few things that forces you to do nothing else but enjoy an hour or two doing nothing else. We were talking about taking the another step and trying pipe tobacco. We found your channel and this along with your many guides and videos have convinced us this is a great way to slow down and we purchased a few pipes and found a shop that carriers some of the Peterson blends you recommended. I cant wait to give this a try and i want to thank you for guiding us in this direction.
I got into pipe smoking from Tolkien and medieval reenactment. Even though smoking tobacco isn’t a “medieval” thing but a new world modern thing, it was very fun to do around the fire after all the activities were done and the modern people left. I have to thank my dear friend Robert for the inspiration. As we would sit around the fire and laugh and enjoy our time together and with friends while he enjoyed his pipe.
It also took my back to when I was a child and read the Lord Of The Rings books. A time of imagination and wonder.
I only smoked a pipe probably a few times a year. And mostly at medieval events. All my pipes were cheap from a tobacco store. I did buy a pipe at a Renaissance Festival that I still use today. Usually I used churchwardens because of the LOTR influence. Recently, the last couple years, I’ve started delving into smoking a pipe more often and looking more into the proper ways of doing it. I’ve honed my technique of packing and smoking one. Muttnchop Piper Introduced me to the “breathing method” which I use a lot now. It did solve a lot of problems of heat and tongue bite and gurgling. In the last couple years by watching channels such as this I discovered the genre surrounding pipe smoking. The types of people who do it. The stereotypes. It really seems to fit with me. I am learning about “The brotherhood of the Leaf”. Which has set a fire to me for it, pun intended.
I have always been a thinking type man. I think a lot about Spiritual things as mentions. I think a lot about the state of the world. Society. My family which is my wife and my children. It is teaching me, and watching videos like this, that I need to take time and slow down and think, reflect, pray, read, study, or just relax. I heard a quote several years ago that I loved. A man talked about men needed to get rid of the man cave and go back to having the study. Not a place to play and get away. But a place to go and meditate and read and learn. There is a time to play and blow off steam yes. But we as men need to get back into being men of contemplation and honor. Men of virtue. Men of God. To strengthen our souls and our hearts and minds as well as our bodies and not so much our pocketbooks. I have learned in my life that if you are not happy and content before you have money and possession you won’t be happy and content after you have them. Man is a spiritual creature first and foremost after all.
To get back into the pipe smoking discussion I am finding I am enjoying trying new tobaccos and flavors. Trying new types of pipes. Almost all of my pipe smoking has been at home by myself but I do look forward to the social aspects of piping. I do enjoy good fulfilling and edifying conversation. I enjoy teaching and very much enjoy learning.
Thank you for bringing up and starting this conversation. Manhood it seems has been under attack and we men need to come together and preserve our manhood. This entails discussions and bonding.
God bless you sir and the work you are doing.
Thank you for your viewpoints and wisdom. Keep making the videos.
I myself fall into the category you mentioned of not being very religious but I can definitely agree with the sentiment of slowing life and contemplating our existence while enjoying my pipe(s). There’s nothing like my pipes other than my mindfulness meditation practice that keeps me present and thoughtful. The tobacco does taste better than simple mindful breathing though. Lol. Love the vids
I just picked up pipe smoking and absolutely fell in love with it. It’s peaceful, meditative, and slows me the necessary time to slow down.
Amen, Brother!! Since I started smoking my pipe, I have been able to sit and pray for 30 to 40 minutes. Before that, I could barely pray for 3 minutes. When I smoke, I have a view of Ozark woods in every direction for miles! (Garden of Eden). God bless you and your wonderful family. John
Alan, First off best of health and happiness to you, the Mrs. and your growing family. Congratulations on your new land purchase. It was a wonderful message today in taking pause to think about the important things in life. Although not a pipe smoker once in a while I will fire up my late husbands pipe to smell the aroma and reflect upon things. It was always a pleasure seeing him enjoy his pipe, I could almost see the gears in his head turning as he thought through or about things.
In the morning I enjoy peterson's early morning and a mug of coffee while I read and study. In the evening I enjoy a pipe and rest and think about things.
Blessings to you and your growing family! Addressing your question of how the pipe makes us reflect and focus, I was struck by one word that you used. Eternal. As the bowl diminishes, so does our life. Like a great pair of boots, jeans, etc. The enjoyment comes in the moment, but can last forever with our connection to grandparents, parents, children, and grandchildren. That "room note" that is often discounted on Tobacco Reviews is what our most precious possessions will remember about us, as well as our judicious advisory and guidance and parenting that we provide. Through thoughtful, reasoned reflection, we will take our turn at the wheel, as our forefathers did before us. The prayer, meditation, and peacefulness that the pipe provides creates that eternity. We are temporary, the tobacco in the bowl is temporary, our boots and jeans are temporary, but the Man you are, and the Family you maintain and build, and the "Room Note" you leave behind are Eternal.
Pipe smoking is like a Spiritual Oasis...
This olde man (66) once again enjoyed learning, remembering, and thinking with you. Praying in Jesus name right now for you, your wife and your 3 young children. Be sure to share the name and photos of baby 3 at the right time. Thank you. Bill
Brilliant video! Congratulations on your imminent arrival! I have 3 children under 7. 2 of them are under 5. Smoking a pipe helps me be a better father, a better husband, and a better Christian man…. Been thinking about replacing my F350 - so definitely going to go and check out the Denali!
Another great video of thoughts to ponder! Pipe smoking allows me to stop and contemplate and ponder things eternal. I have shared the words of Rev. Dr. Malcom Guite, from one of your previous videos, "Opt for beauty not utility..." I mulled that phrase over as I smoked a pipe and have shared it with parishioners as well. Blessings on your new son!
Congratulations on your new child! I, too, feel that while there is beauty and artistry in pipes & tobacco, they are ultimately a tool for more important things like meditation and contemplative practice. At least in my world there is no such thing as a "quick pipe".
Alan, I could not agree with you more. When I sat down to a good pipe it is always out doors. In doing so, all the beauty of the outside becomes more apparent. Gives me time to thank our creator for the wonderous, beautiful, and functional world he gave to us. I use it for a lot of personal relationship with Christ time. I take advantage of it when sitting outside watching the smoker get up to temp. To me it is everything that has been described. A ritualistic hobby for taste / smell that draws you in to reflect and slow down. A gateway to this time is the perfect analogy. Every task requires a well tuned instrument to assist. I have 4 children 2 girls ( oldest ), followed by 2 boys. They are all al blessing, a learning experience, and a test of our compassion. I wish you and your wife well bringing this new little guy into the world. May the Lord shepherd, watch over, and guide you and your family. To the Harrison household, Take care and continue down the path you have already started.
At 61, I can address you as a young and say "thank you young man" for sharing your heart. I pray that the Lord will continue to bless you, and continue to mold you into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ our Savior!
I pray that He will guide you to be His hands and feet to your wife, your children, your students and to the YTPC as well.
Be strong and of good courage!
God bless!
Amazing video yet again,I'm spiritual not religious & believe in simplicity,my favorite time are hiking,camping or fishing & sit'n down with my pipe reflecting on days past & the wonders around me,people go to church & speak of his wonders,I prefer to be in the mountains seeing his wonders
Great video Alan! I am also a father of 3 daughters. Ages 9,8 and 6. Being a father is the best thing in the world. Having a pipe is a wonderful time to reflect on life and enjoy some terrific tobacco. Take care and God Bless!
The revelation of eternity can only be surpassed by the understanding of how to live there.
The "three-pipe_problem" ,found this online. Big Arthur Conan Doyle fan. Reading his books is why I started smoking my fathers and my grandfather's pipes. The full quote reads “it is quite a three pipe problem and I beg that you won’t speak to me for fifty minutes.” Thanks for bringing back those memories. Good day sir.
Love your perspective. I love the smoking experience as a whole. Now that I have grown in my skill as a pipe smoker, I’m going to be able to be more mindful of the things of which you speak and not just thinking about keeping my pipe lit!
You’re a good man and I’m sure you’re being the man you want to be. Keep telling it brother.
I’m a new subscriber and this is the first video I’ve seen. I was made aware of your channel from Red tool house and as a cigar smoker I thought we might have some things in common. I appreciate your perspective on life and Christianity. My Dad and his Dad were pipe smokers as was my Father in Law. For some reason I’ve been drawn to cigars. I think the experience is similar. I feel that when I’m having a cigar I’m taking a break from reality, it’s like a 45 minute vacation. I reflect on the day, my life, things I’m thankful for, my goals etc. I think we have a lot in common. I’m looking forward to seeing more of your content and may even have to try pipe smoking. God Bless and keep it Smokey!!!
I resonate so well with your presentation. Your focus on eternal concerns is refreshing and spot on. Thank you Alan.
I 100% agree. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this I really appreciate it and love your content.
Alan, Always love to hear your views Thank you. My pipe smoking time is a time of reflection for me on how i have conducted myself and handled any issues or problems that have come my way during the week. I only smoke my pipe twice a week now instead of everyday and i find i enjoy it much more .
I totally agree with your perspective. It allows me to offer the incense of my thanksgivings for the day, the rising smoke of my daily prayers, the burning flame of my souls ponderings. If allows me to focus on my faith and my home and my family.
By now your son has probably been born. Congratulations and thank you for so much wisdom and counsel.
( Amphora Virginia blend in a corncob while listening to you)
I like to listen to listen to the liturgy of hours when I smoke and then spend time in contemplative prayer.
Grandpa smoked a Pipe. So I do for the nostalgia of it.
Great video hits home, congratulations on the new addition to you're family and blessings to you all.
This is what I want to know, you are purchasing 50 acres of land during a very extremely high inflationary period and you purchase a GMC that is obviously NOT cheap. What do you do for a living?
Congratulations. Boy, girl, girl here. Each addition just gets better! We will put your family on the Rosary chain for an easy and healthy birth. Again Congratulations and thanks for your content.
Great message. I filled my Peterson Deluxe with some Sleepy Hollow this evening after work. Sitting on the back porch watching the birds feeding at the feeders. Your video brought me back to when my wife and I were welcoming our 4 children into our home over a period of 7 years. Sweet memories we will cherish forever. Pipe smoking for me is a way to connect with those lost ways of living and the people who built this country as well as those who built me into the Christian man I am today. I find that an evening spent with an old pipe is like spending time with a good friend. I can unwind from the stress of my day and remember who I am and what’s most important. I watch all your videos and am trying to get my grown adult children to listen to you and learn to slow down with a pipe when they can. We had 3 boys and our youngest was our daughter. God bless you and yours!
I'm originally from New York and live in Indonesia now with my wife. Life can get lonely and isolated here. Christianity can be hard to exercise. But when I have a pipe, the world slows down for a bit, and I feel connected to others who share the same pass time I do. I learn to appreciate things as small as a cool light breeze, the smell of fresh air, or the melancholic sound of falling rain. As someone who is often judged for my pipe smoking, I appreciate insights like this greatly.
I totally agree. Great video
I really like the idea of a one or even two pipe problem. I dread those two pipe problems for sure. But just as surely I know that some dedicated thought over a couple bowls of tobacco has never failed me.
Thank you for the video. I have been a pipe smoker for less than a year. For me, pipe smoking slows me down. I live a very busy life and I needed to slow down and relax. It also gives me time to think, and reflect about many of life’s decisions. It truly has made an impact upon my life and the life of others around me. Now I just need to find the right blend for me. I do enjoy trying different blends as it’s a perk of the hobby and opens myself to try other things in life as well. Thank you for your videos.
I do love springtime and now the opportunity to get out in God's creation to enjoy a bowl of good tobacco. I am a long time cigar smoker who started pipe smoking about a year ago. A cigar is a longer time commitment of about 1 hour plus. So now I can enjoy a shorter smoke when time avails. I agree it is a time of meditation and reflection. With a cigar I usually listen to classical music. With my pipe I likewise enjoy music and nature. I agree with your wise words and insight. Especially your acknowledging our need to commit all to our Lord Jesus. May God bless your family as you seek His blessing. Just wanted to add I will be 73 this year and I am a Vietnam veteran so I have much to reflect on as I retired 10 years ago.
Thank you for that honest and open look into your heart that I believe will resonant with so many of us! As I have grown in my pipe journey, I have been asked similar questions about why I smoke, and it’s taken me a while to hone in on an answer - which very closely aligns with your own!
An excellent, insightful commentary. Thank you, sir!
I can relate with you on the subject of family and faith.
We moved from North Idaho to North East Tennessee a month ago. We found out our forth child is on the way.
Pipe smoking has given time for me to think about and thru all the changes. We didn’t know anyone here but I know God has moved us for a purpose.
I have done much research on Native American Spirituality, including the Sacred Pipe. Fr. Paul Steinmetz served as pastor for 20 years on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota. When he conducted the funeral mass of Ben Black Elk, son of holy man Nicholas Black Elk, he disconnected the bowl and stem and placed the pipe on the coffin to symbolize death. He then reconnected the bowl and stem to symbolize resurrection. That is powerful symbolism!
Cigar smoker here but the process is the same for me as well. I look forward to sitting down with a good smoke and simply organizing my thoughts and priorities. Thanks!
Cigar smoker and dog lover too! Well done!!
Awesome content 👏 Congratulations on the new baby 👶 on the way 😊
Smoking pipe is good for the soul ❤ God bless 🙌 🙏
Greetings from south africa 🇿🇦
Well said, Alan. Like you, the time spent smoking my pipe has enabled contemplations that have helped me to become a better man. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and may God bless your growing family!
Pipe smoking is such an important thing in this digital world of ours
I’m thankful for the blessing you share with us.
Congratulations on a new family member!!
They are a blessing.
I’ll have to admit, while enjoying a bowl of pipe tobacco, I tend to dwell on the fact that I can internalize
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”
I’m thankful for what I’ve been blessed to take care of, I’m also very aware that our Lord said of Himself.
“Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head."
I can easily be tempted into materialism.
I’m in a much healthier place when I’m asking God for the grace to seek His kingdom rather than my own, to serve those He places in my path rather than serving myself.
I can relax knowing that I’m not here to build myself a kingdom.
I can “aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind my own business, and to work with my hands. I can walk properly toward those who are outside, and that I may lack nothing.”
I personally agree with you. Smoking gives me time to myself. I think, also, my wife appreciates the brief separation between us (excuse me while I pry my tongue from my cheek with a crow bar). I'm extremely pleased with the arrival of your new son. The joy this brings to your family and to the world is a unique blessing. May God continue to bless you and your family.
All blessing to you and yours on your growing family! I have three boys myself…
My pipe smoking brings me back in time to when I was young, and we would go for weekend getaways to my Pawpaws home place in south Louisiana and his brother would come visit
And drink coffee and eat pie by the fireplace and light his pipe and tell stories from the olden days.
Preach it brother!
Congrats on the coming son, and on the new pickup. I just purchased a new Colorado -- the Denali sibling. God bless you and your family.
Thank you for giving credit, recognition and testimony for your faith. For 30+ years I've smoked a pipe, as my grandfathers did, and I become more introspective every day and try to learn something each time I light one of my pipes.