It's like Higson is writing right now, too. His knowledge, insight and even writing style are sensational. While much of any building book can be dry, he peppers his with personality. I'd have a beer with him.

Contrast this with the knuckle-dragger I met recently at Home Depot. First, he wore what I call the "I'm not paying attention" uniform.

It's (and if this is you, I'm sorry) the over-sized, extra-flat rim ball cap (visor askew), shorts that were too long and untied shoes. It appeared English was not his first language. Actually, it appeared Language was not his first language.

But I couldn't help talking to him. He was buying pressure treated decking and aluminum flashing. "Treated and aluminum don't mix," I mentioned. He replied he was in the business and that he knows "all the codes."

Uh huh.

It turns out I'm parked next to him. His truck (at least it was a truck) was not for work. It was a "ride." He kept the shiny bed cover -- heaven forbid you get…you know…dirt on your work truck--closed for loading. The deck boards cantilevered 4 feet out and were steadied with bags of concrete.

Building looked like a distraction from his image, one that seems in total contrast to how my customers carry themselves. I also know that my customers have all the money I'll ever make so this matters to me. I wonder what Higson would do.

What do you do when you need help and it's ball-cap boy? Do you take a chance? Train him? Company uniforms? Do you go it alone? I'm dying to know how as a leader of your company, you lead guys like him…And you have to lead. All that decking was a pothole away from being spread all over the road.