The power of restoration... It can't be underestimated. Before creating something new, take care of what you already have. I don't know about all your countries, but in ours, especially in the government sector and wherever there's an opportunity for your nameplate to be displayed —you'll surely observe one thing: Build something new, and whatever was constructed just a few months ago by someone else can go to waste. Who cares?
I had a hair dye appointment yesterday and found myself with plenty of time on my hands while the dye was applied and I was waiting for it to be washed off later. Seeking some warmth on a chilly day, I stepped out into the yard connected to the parlour, enjoying the beautiful sunshine.
That’s when my eyes fell on a trailer, now abandoned and rotting away. It had a story. Once, it was set up as a tea café — a new project launched by the administration. A significant amount of money was spent on it, complete with an inaugural ceremony, which also came with its own expenses.
The most absurd part? The food served at the launch was prepared by us, the ladies, at our homes. Even funnier: That first event also turned out to be the last. The café was never used again, and now it stands there as a sad reminder of wasted resources.
There is also this wooden hut. It was supposed to serve as some kind of auxiliary feature alongside the trailer, I guess. If it had been continued, it could have become a pleasant spot to enjoy tea with friends, especially for those visiting the parlour.
But once again, the sustainability of such projects needs to be factored in when they are initiated. Will it be worthwhile? Are there enough people who would visit? And in summer, with the scorching heat, would the turnout justify the costs? Running air conditioning all day for what? Employing someone full-time for what?
The cats and their babies have happily claimed the hut as their own. They seem quite pleased with the management for thoughtfully providing them with a cozy winter shelter and a sunny retreat. It’s safe to say the feline residents have no complaints about the arrangement!
Coming back to my original point:
Restoration.
I truly believe it’s the key to solving so many problems. There are countless examples of neglected spaces and structures around where I live. Take the arena here, for instance. It used to be a football stadium — a fantastic spot, complete with inbuilt stairs and seating. But now, no one pays it any attention.
It could have been maintained, or even now, it could be restored. Why do we constantly chase after new projects when so many existing ones are crying out for a little care and attention? Why build something new when the old, with a bit of effort, could serve us just as well, if not better?
Then I think, maybe I'm not qualified enough to voice these concerns. Of course, they must know better than me. They must be more equipped, more knowledgeable, and wiser. But then, how come I can’t shake these feelings? Why does no one else ever say anything? Why is everyone so okay with this?
Don’t they find it satisfying? The euphoria that comes from restoring, reusing, or recycling something old? Or maybe they just don’t have time for these "silly" things. Or perhaps it goes against the bigger purpose. The higher one... You know what I mean, if you know.
I’m posting this article in this community because I believe people here can relate to this problem or mindset. I’m not sure if these things happen on your side of the world too… please do let me know in the comments. Am I drawing attention to this just because of my perspective, or should I be questioning these thoughts? Are there other factors involved? For example, how can one really know if something will work or not?
Restoration: All you need is LOVE