How is a person to be known? Various quotes indicate they are known by their silence, deeds, the company they keep, friends, books they read, tastes/distastes, and thanks to Jesus, “by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). May I add another, or perhaps an application of Jesus’ term “fruits”? A person is known by their office. Early in my ministry, a “decorator” looked at my office and almost had cardiac arrest. “Too stuffy” she said, adding “to uncomfortable” plus a few other terms I dare not repeat. I guess it relates to who your office is for, you, or those who visit you. Since I seldom ever closed the door to my office when I was in it, mine was always open to students and others who wandered by. So what does my office look like? No plants, because I hate to water them. Erma Bombeck said, “Never go to a doctor whose office plants have died.” Books? Yes, for reference. Mostly un-read, or read only until boredom set in. Every shelf of books is interrupted with an object that causes guests to comment. Pictures? Yes, of family, of significant scenes, and, of course, baseball. A corner with a prayer bench and multitudes of prayer prompters from places I’ve been and pictures of people I’ve taught or known. Framed money around the upper walls from every country I’ve visited, 56 and counting. Mugs (coffee, not beer) from every university campus where I’ve spoken or ministered. I’ve lost count and broken mugs. Quotes, inspiring and otherwise. Stacks of paper, too many. A colleague was known for cleaning his stacks once every semester, “whether they needed it or not.” And of course a space for my brain to work, remembering a quote by Robert Frost,” The brain is a wonderful organ; it starts working the moment you get up in the morning and does not stop until you get into the office.” I attended a funeral service recently where a video was shown of the man’s office. I like that. Someone do that for my funeral. Among other things, I want to be remembered for my office. How about you?
Comments