1. I’m a fan of the circular economy
Have you ever wondered what happens to a wind turbine after it retires? No, nor me, but the truth with blow you away.
Last week I learnt that a Dutch architectural firm, aptly named “Blade made”, is turning the retired white blades and shafts of wind turbines into beautiful, functional pieces of outdoor furniture. Think bus shelters, benches and even childrens’ playgrounds. I’m huge fan. What a wonderful example of a positive, sustainable contribution to the circular economy. It really has left me spinning. What a breath of fresh air. Ok, I’m done now.
2. N’Oat so simple
I’m currently reading a fascinating new book by Lamorna Ash about the state of Christianity in the UK. Her first book, “Dark, Salt, ClearDark, Salt, Clear: Life in a Cornish Fishing Town” chronicled her bucolic month spent living in a verse of a Cornish sea shanty, integrating into the lives of the locals and experiencing the hard graft of the trawlermen. You’ll enjoy this book if you love Cornwall, the sea and digestible tangents on geology, genealogy and philosophy; and lots of fish.
In her second book, “Don’t forget we’re here forever: A New generation’s search for religion”, she delves into the meatier topic of Religion and Faith in Britain today. As with her first book, Ash’s skill is taking the reader down ostensibly challenging tangents (in this case, Bible verse and philosophy) and revealing them with her easy prose.
I’ve learnt loads from the book so far, but the first thing that came to mind when thinking of things to share in this letter were some facts about the Quakers. How funny that a Christian-derived religion with almost half a million members worldwide should be usurped to the front of the mind by the humble oat. It made me think of other brands that are more famous than thing after which they are named. Hermès, Nike, Ajax, Pandora, Oracle, Venus, Mars. What comes to mind first, the mythical deities or the handbags, running vests and razor blades?
“Quaker” came about like all long-lasting nicknames, not through endearment and affection, but suspicion and malice. Outside observers of the small 17th century following of founder George Fox were said to have made fun of them for "trembl[ing] at the word of the Lord." After that, the Religious Society of Friends were stuck with “Quaker”. Like all resilient branches of Christianity, the movement has evolved significantly from the preacher-led histrionics of the tumultuous 17th-century to becoming a welcoming religion of individual divination with an emphasis on quiet justice, sustainability and activisim.
I’d recommend the book whether you’re religious or not. Best served with a steaming bowl of porridge :)
Have a great week, all 🙏