Author Archives: malcolmsmusingscom

Work on our new kitchen is finally starting this week! Our current kitchen has done us good service, but after 20 years its old, worn-out, and needs replacing. This is a philosophy that many quote: ‘I’ve had my car for 5 years; it’s old – replace it!’ ‘I remember when I first wore this shirt;Continue reading “It’s Old – Replace it!”

My hope is built on nothing lessThan Jesus’ blood and righteousnessI dare not trust the sweetest frameBut, wholly trust in Jesus’ name The original version of this hymn was written in 1834 by Edward Mote. Edward became a Christian, while still a boy, through the influence of a cabinetmaker to whom he was apprenticed.  HeContinue reading “Cornerstone”

I’ve mused on sexuality, racial issues, gun law, abortion, politics, religion in the past… issues that often cause polarised thinking and bring division. Yesterday I read Sarah Phillips’ excellent article ‘5 ways to have a better conversation about abortion’. I’ve borrowed her ‘5 ways’ in a broader application… 1. Don’t be afraid to talk aboutContinue reading “5 Ways To Better Conversations”

At our monthly Seagull Theatre Directors meeting Des was explaining the arrangements for the 1940s weekend – the craft fair, vintage clothes, 40’s music… and the many licences required… public entertainments licence, street trading licence… the ‘Non-illuminated street decorations licence’ = a licence for bunting! Des said: ‘I thought it wise to pay for themContinue reading “Wise Choices, wise words”

At Men’s Shed yesterday I chatted to a number of gents… …Andy’s lives on his own; he’s lonely and depressed. He can’t see Darren, his young son… Darren’s mother won’t permit it. Darren’s stepfather (who Darren is told is his Dad) has already assaulted Andy and is threatening further violence… …Keith’s off work. Recently heContinue reading “Learning to Listen”

Wimbledon has started… Last night we watched  Serena Williams lose to a French Girl, Harmony Tan. Serena Williams has been a great tennis player; it was a great match… but Serena’s past her best. It was as if she has to perform in front of a big crowd… She has to play tennis… Serena’s physicalContinue reading “Restlessness”

The rats have returned to our garden. In the past I’ve paid exorbitant amounts for the professional rat-catcher to come. This time I’ve bought my own trap – click-and-collect from Screwfix… I hope the rats will click the trap as they try to collect the bait. We watched the news last night – the RussianContinue reading “Trapped”

Yesterday started with learning that Sarah had died. Tragic, sad… We went to church. There was a great sense of sadness and loss. Sarah was known and loved by many. We returned home to a family barbecue concluding our Golden Wedding Anniversary celebrations… At church Abi quoted St Anselm who talked about ‘Faith seeking understanding…’Continue reading “Faith Seeking Understanding”

Teach me Thy way, O Lord,  Teach me Thy way;Thy gracious aid afford,  Teach me Thy way.Help me to walk aright;More by faith, less by sight;Lead me with heav’nly light,  Teach me Thy way. Our good friends Tim and Jill sang this old hymn at our wedding. Yesterday they, and a number of other friends, celebrated our weddingContinue reading “Teach Me Thy Way”

As a student teacher I was introduced to ‘lesson preparation’… preparing what I was going to teach and how I was going to teach it. I’ve spent my life preparing for the next activity or event in the family, school, church. The old perceived wisdom says: ‘Proper planning and preparation prevents poor performance.’ Yesterday wasContinue reading “Preparation and Planning”