Author Archives: malcolmsmusingscom

‘In our own woundedness, we can become a source of life for others’. I’ve been reminded of Henri Nouwen’s ‘Wounded Healer’ several times recently…. We have high expectations, hopes and dreams, We must have success, independence, popularity, financial security and self-confidence. We need to get a good job, be an exemplary parent, be a faithfulContinue reading “The Wounded Healer”

Lord, I hope this day is goodI’m feelin’ empty and misunderstoodI should be thankful, Lord, I know I shouldBut Lord I hope this day is good It’s a start-of-the-day prayer. I have been given another day to live – to enjoy, create memories, serve others. I can’t bring back yesterday either to re-live the goodContinue reading “Lord I Hope This Day Is Good”

Darcie Richards, a 25-year-old bricklayer from Attleborough, works with her brothers for her dad’s building company. Inspiring women to go against stereotypes, ‘it’s a man’s job’, and work in the construction industry Darcie says: ‘If you want to be a plasterer, electrician or carpenter, do it and don’t care what people think.’ …Delightfully unexpected. Norwich’sContinue reading “Tales of the Unexpected”

I was sent this yesterday: ‘Colin the Caterpillar facing the sack after nude photos appear online’. It was predictable that with all of Colin’s recent publicity there would rumours and accusations about his private life – when he’s not on public display in Marks & Spencer. I fear that just as mud sticks so chocolateContinue reading “Accusations, Convictions & Consequences”

Last night on BBC1: Garden Rescue showed a family with a tired, neglected garden. The experts produced a design and skilfully landscaped paths and seating areas; beds for a variety of flowers, shrubs and trees transformed the garden. The family were delighted. The Repair Shop included a 17th Century painting, a grandmother’s ring, a well-travelledContinue reading “Transformed, Repaired, Created”

Marks and Spencer are taking legal action against Aldi. Aldi’s Cuthbert the Caterpillar cake is too much like the M&S’ Caterpillar ‘Colin’… Aldi have recently responded on twitter: ‘Hey Marks and Spencer we’re taking a stand against caterpillar cruelty. Can Colin and Cuthbert be besties? We’re bringing back a limited edition Cuthbert next month andContinue reading “Transitions and Changes”

The Marsh Family sung their parody ‘Totally fixed where we are’ on ‘Comic Relief’ a month ago. Lockdown had prevented them from doing normal things and going to normal places… Lockdown’s physical restrictions lead to a mental ‘totally fixed where we are’. For some totally-fixedness is comfortable and secure: returning to the old normal orContinue reading “Totally Fixed Where We Are”

Discussion about racism continues – in football, business, the police force… BBC Panorama have been investigating racism in the Church of England; the programme is broadcast tonight. I often have conversations with my Brazilian son-in-law Allan about racism in the church. He’s talked about his friend Petersen – coming to England in 2011, working forContinue reading “Peterson Feital”

The Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral yesterday was simple, dignified and impressive. His favourite hymn deserves musing. O hear us when we cry to Thee,For those in peril on the sea. Written by Anglican churchman, teacher and musician William Whiting in 1860 it‘s often known as ‘The Sailor’s Hymn’. Based on Psalm 107 it talks aboutContinue reading “Eternal Father, Strong to Save,”

Yesterday’s news included the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral plans, Tory sleaze, covid vaccines… and Colin the Caterpillar. ‘Colin the Caterpillar’ is a chocolate roll cake sold by Marks and Spencer. Since its introduction in 1990 Colin has acquired and retains a reputation for his distinctive, consistent high quality. More than 15 million Colin cakes haveContinue reading “Colin the Caterpillar”