
So much washes up against home windows from rain, wind, dust over the course of the spring, summer and fall that we can forget what it is like to look out on sparkling snow during a sun-inspired winter morning. If the window is dull, the scene is dull. We don’t really think about it.
You see the before and after difference following a cleaning. Remove the grime, erase the streaks, wipe and replace the screens. Now, step back from your masterpiece. Ahhhhhhhhh…..
The world is new. It shines in on you. You smile and think happier thoughts. This is a strange syndrome if you think about it.
We feel better when things are cleaned up and arranged. Perhaps it is the sense of order that improves our mood. I’m not so sure that is all of it. More is at work inside us.
I have a good friend whose wife thinks he’s nuts because of all the things he focuses on around the house, cleaning the windows is the big one he cares about. But, then when he is done, he’ll hear from her, “Wow. Those look really nice. Good idea, honey.”
Yes, it is. Clear windows give us a different perspective on the world because impediments are removed. Maybe it’s that simple. We see things more clearly. That’s a good thing, right? So it makes us happier, more energetic, contemplative. Sometimes we begin whistling with the birds as we watch them whip from tree branch to tree branch.
Clean windows can almost be as refreshing as a good morning shower. They are similar. You go in dirty, you come out refreshed. You’re ready to start the day and take on challenges, whatever they might be.
I can’t help myself. I return to admire the handiwork when it’s finished – the view unobstructed through a freshly wiped window.
I have another good friend who compares the process and result to mowing or painting. All are repetitive work, up and down, back and forth. You must accurately complete the task in a way that leaves no residue, spillage, carnage. When you’re done, you look back on the accomplishment in wonder. Everything is organized. “DAMN, it looks good,” you say to yourself, as you blow on your fingers and rub them against your chest with pride.
And, finally, there is the friend who has everything for Christmas and all he asks for is a squeegee to clean his world. Is that too much to ask for? I went online. You can find a good one for under 20 bucks.
Think of the improvement in his life and the happiness he will attain in the coming year as he squeegee’s his windows for that extra special sparkle, removing the streaks that you just can’t seem to get rid of with Windex and paper towels. He doesn’t need a sweater or a pair of socks or a new belt or a smart phone.
A squeegee will do him just fine. If you know someone like that, someone who is fulfilled, but wants to fulfill the world just a bit more, order that squeegee for him. You’ll be helping to make the world a better place. Merry Christmas.