Are you laying brick or building a cathedral!?

Over the course of the past year we have visited hundreds of sights, buildings, and organizations in the western half of our variegated country. Along the way, we've discovered that 'quality' has a vibe to it... it actually radiates, almost as if the craftsman imbued their essence into the product or service they so proudly deliver. From the uplifting design of the story plaques and sculptures at Alki Beach to museums which are as unique on the outside as on the inside to still-standing bunkers which protected our troops and kept our country safe to churches and other spiritual buildings lovingly constructed to invite humanity in - we have marveled at and celebrated the human creativity of so many.

Of course, we've also eaten out in our share of restaurants - and there is a reason why we usually try to identify a local establishment (often by asking our hosts and/or locals) and avoid the franchises. Most often, those decisions result in getting a higher quality meal, caring service and great food, frequently proudly cooked by the owner. 

Still, we cook far more often than we eat out and that means searching out the best grocery stores. Here too, we've discovered that local supermarkets, particularly co-ops, frequently provide the best quality in food - after all the staff are also the owners and get to choose what's stocked! 

When available, we also read the local newspapers and magazines, again marveling at how each section of our country works hard to invite travelers to sample the best they have to offer. We've attended more than a few events which we learned about through local papers and newsletters.

Considering all the ways people 'create,' we're reminded of an old parable that compares the perspectives of two workers who are constructing a building. One considers his work as a job and is simply "laying brick;" the other however states that he is part of "building a cathedral!" It's not too far fetched to infer that there is probably a quality factor that runs parallel to both these paradigms.

Particularly in our post-pandemic world, we have noted that it is even more critical to remind and recommit ourselves with passion and purpose to focus on being present and giving our best to all we do...and we're heartened to witness so many people doing exactly that!

 

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Photo Credits

North Admiral District: One of the many unique brick homes in the West Seattle neighborhood 

Chapel In the Hills: Located in Rapid City South Dakota, the hand-built structure is surrounded by beautiful meditational paths in a wooded setting.  

PCC Community Market: Two staff/members of the PCC assisting Jer in "packaging" his anniversary gift for his Hunny! 

Starbucks Alki Beach: Purpose statement for the Alki Beach Starbucks where we often had our first cup of coffee before walking the beach.