Tuesday, February 08, 2011

When We Are the Engine

On the difference between working by hand, and working with machine power:

" . . . There is an undeniable satisfaction in using our own sheer animal power and energy. We feel a deep sense of satisfaction when we alone are the engine that makes something happen."

--Alexandra Stoddard, Gracious Living in a New World

8 comments:

Mrs. Kelley Dibble said...

One of my favorite writers is Alexandra Stoddard.

I love being "the engine," too.

Margo said...

what a helpful analogy. A great argument for do-it-yourself projects, beyond thriftiness.

the lady said...

"our own animal power"? That sounds evolutionary.
If Mrs. Stoddard wants to consider herself an animal, she can title herself with that...but it is presuming and rude of her to go on and label everyone with it by using first person possessive.

I know I am a human , made in the image and likeness of God.
Just thought I'd share, since you are an Evangelical too.

Anna said...

I think the term "animal power" is used to mean physical, biological power as opposed to machine power. I don't think it means that we are animals in any kind of lowly sense. Her point is that our bodies, unaided by machines, have the power to accomplish work.

Erin said...

I love this quote; it rings so true!

Lisa said...

She has many good ideas and insights.

Lisateresa

Kris said...

An interesting quote. Especially to me at the moment because we have no washing machine right now. I am the washing machine. And instead of it being a dreadful imposition (as my husband worries) it is good. Without a machine I can still provide clean clothes for my family.

The Hobbit said...

Just caught up on some of your post.I'm using grey this year in my spruce-up. Being the engine has cut my workout done to a minimum this winter but, glad to see you are organized enough to fit it in. Think I'll have time to squeeze in that breakfast treat:0

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