May 3, 2021 (Monday)
Although “sweat shops” and child labor are gradually disappearing around the world, they still exist. But in the dot.com world of computers and software, companies are “thinking out of the box” and changes are taking place that seem very strange to us old-timers.
The title of this blog, “Hotelification,” is a word that’s coming into use in the Real Estate business, but it has not yet made it to the dictionary–even Webster’s. The concept reaches its zenith in the high rise office building that includes work places, shopping, recreation, luxury apartments, parking, etc., all on separate floors, of course.
The movie and tv set that caught my eye when I first saw this word in print was the office space of “SQRPOINT,” a fictitious software specialty company in the TV show, “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.” The office we see when we tune in to the show is a version of what is known as “The Nest” in the video industry and is located on the campus of The University of British Columbia. Since the show is set in San Francisco, there are many scenes and references to places in that city.
The work place pictured in this TV show is no doubt the exception of work places in general, but in a changing world, innovations of all kinds are making their way into the work place today, notably the practice of working from home. The pandemic has necessitated the utilization of this idea and companies are finding it to be cost effective and acceptable. Most employees, likewise, like it. Few companies, however, have moved to the cutting edge level of architecture and decor for work places that are featured in this TV show.
In all probability people in my generation might respond to this kind of work place with the words of a song: “I beg your pardon — I never promised you a rose garden.” This is probably especially true for those of us brought up with a work ethic firmly grounded in the Scriptures’ “Work, for the night is coming.” Preachers are fond of pointing out that Adam and Eve were workers in the Garden of Eden before the fall, although after the fall it wasn’t much fun anymore. Looks like some of the new ideas of today’s world are attempting to make it fun again.
Click here to view an innovative ultra modern workplace.
Here’s my blog from April 16, 2016:
Work While You Can
In 1854, an 18 year old young lady reminded us to work for Lord while we can because the night is coming when we will no longer be able to do so. After reading John 9:4, “I must work the works of Him who sent me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work,” Annie Louise Walker Coghill wrote the words of this hymn.
The song reflects a diffrent work ethic. For 162 years it has reminded us that our days upon this earth are numbered. Let us use the strength and time we now have to serve the Lord, for a time will come when we won’t be able to do it anymore. May we be faithful, for the night is coming.
Words by Anna Walker Coghill, 1854 Tune by Lowell Mason, 1864
Work, for the night is coming, Work, for the night is coming, |