When it comes to working in hip locales, I know that I’m just not that cool. I envy my colleagues who can spend the day at the local café, crafting brilliant talks. I’ve tried to create in that environment but it just doesn’t work for me. The clanging of mugs, the endless bodies in motion, the guy in the $400 jeans who leaves his Range Rover running while he waits in line; all these things distract me to no end.
I want to be a pastor whose office is in the community; I want to be where the people are. I’d love to set up my laptop at the local pub or in town square. But whenever I do, I long for the stillness of my office.
When it comes to working in hip locales, I know that I’m just not that cool. I envy my colleagues who can spend the day at the local café, crafting brilliant talks. I’ve tried to create in that environment but it just doesn’t work for me. The clanging of mugs, the endless bodies in motion, the guy in the $400 jeans who leaves his Range Rover running while he waits in line; all these things distract me to no end.
I want to be a pastor whose office is in the community; I want to be where the people are. I’d love to set up my laptop at the local pub or in town square. But whenever I do, I long for the stillness of my office.
My office is really uninspiring. It’s not swank or funky. It’s not a loft or a studio. It’s just a poorly lit box with old church furniture, worn books and too much clutter. Yet, when I spend time there, creativity flows.
Being on sabbatical in Chile has meant a complete separation of pastor and office. I have been stretched to think, reflect, and create in new places. I’ve walked the beach, written at seaside cafés, brainstormed on the elliptical. Truthfully, I have not missed the office at all.
I wonder how it will be when I am back home.
Where do you do your best thinking? Creating?
I’m at my best between 8:30am and 11:30am. When is your mind sharpest?
