Why does Longfellow thank the blacksmith in the poem's final stanza?

The blacksmith's strength and industriousness have made life easier for

Longfellow

The blacksmith is someone who Longfellow has hired to work "at the flaming

forge of life."

The blacksmith is someone who helped Longfellow in his time of need,

The blacksmith's life serves as an example for Longfellow and others to follow.