Our Men’s Shed, built a hundred years ago as a net drying shed for a local fisherman. needs new windows. Having been repaired and patched up many times they now need replacement.
Yesterday we had the silly conversation – grandad jokes, window puns… those who are a real pain/pane… avoiding being framed… using a smashing contractor… seeing through a dishonest trader… continuing until a glazed look came over our eyes…
Musing… Needing new windows…
…Clarity: From our shed we want to see the outside world clearly… I need to see my world clearly: Seeing through the claims of adverts, the spin of politicians, the glamour of the good life… recognising lies, deception, half-truths…
…Transparency: We want to see into the shed from the outside… I need transparency: Others seeing into my life… not pretending that I’m perfect, making out I am what I’m not… displaying sincerity, honour, honesty, integrity.
…Resilience: Our rotten windows let in the wind and rain… I need resilience: Standing against life’s storms… knowing warmth when relationships are unexpectedly cold… staying cool when the heat is on… experiencing protection from the outside world.
…Security: New windows will make the building more secure… I need security: through family, friends and faith… secure in my identity and character, strengths and weaknesses, values and priorities… accepting my past, living well today, facing an unknown future.
…Bespoke: The old building will require bespoke windows… I am unique: No-one has had the same life experiences, the same range of talents and gifts, the same collection of stupidity and failures. My unique needs require bespoke solutions.
…Guaranteed: We shall invite a reputable dealer to do the work… I need guarantees: using skilled craftsmen with a good reputation… taking responsibility…attending to my needs… providing a guarantee that they can honour.
I’m still musing through the general principles. My Christian friends can find scriptures, theology, and sermons to ‘Christianise’ the analogy.
malcolmsmusings.org 
Well done, Malcolm. I had to look up the meaning of bespoke. A worthy little word. And I discovered that there’s a Bespoke Suits & Clothing in Des Moines, Iowa!
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We have the word used sometimes, for example, when a piece of furniture is made to measure specifically for a particular space… or a kitchen designed and built to your requirements
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All excellent window/life analogies Malcolm, and perhaps the most difficult, but transformative one is honest transparency …
” I need transparency: Others seeing into my life… not pretending that I’m perfect, making out I am what I’m not… displaying sincerity, honour, honesty, integrity.”
Thank you for this needed, poignant reminder brother.
Keep Looking Up ^ … His Best is Yet to Come!
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Thanks, Fred – I agree. We live in a world where image is so important – the way you present yourself has always has been important, but social media seem to have highlight this requirement for our grandchildren’s generation to a greater level.
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