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Standing Strong Magazine
REPAIRMAN
I don’t know if you’re the same, but I’ve always been the kind of person who likes to fix things that are broken and restore old things back to life. That mindset comes from a time before the “throw-away” culture really took hold.
These days, so much is mass-produced that it often feels easier — and cheaper — to replace something than to repair it. But I’ve never quite agreed with that attitude. There’s something valuable in fixing things: it teaches you how they work, what makes them function, and how to bring them back together again.
That applies not only to objects, but also to life in general. The more you learn to repair and rebuild — whether it’s furniture, machines, or even relationships — the more understanding and skill you develop. Life, in many ways, is about maintenance, patience, and restoration.
One of my interests is fixing old computers. I enjoy bringing them back to life, setting up systems, and getting everything running again. There’s something satisfying about seeing something old still capable of working well. Sometimes that even turns into a bit of a LAN gaming setup — just friends, classic games, and a good night in.
As we get older, it’s true that we all start to slow down a bit, just like old machines. Life changes, and we don’t always function the way we used to. But that doesn’t mean we lose value.
That’s why I believe in restoration — not giving up too quickly, and not treating things or people as disposable. With care, patience, and the right support, many things can be repaired or strengthened again.
So instead of always defaulting to “throw it away and replace it,” maybe there’s wisdom in learning how to fix, restore, and preserve what still has value.
The 'Tool Shed'
Many people enjoy having a space of their own to tinker, build, and unwind — whether that’s a shed, a garage, a workshop, or even a small creative corner at home.
For a lot of people, especially those who enjoy hands-on work, having a space like this becomes a kind of refuge. It might be fixing a car, repairing old electronics, building projects, or just experimenting with ideas. There’s something satisfying about working with your hands and seeing things come together.
I’ve got a shed out the back myself. It’s become a space for computer experiments, small projects, and just relaxing with friends. It’s not about anything complicated — it’s just a place to step away from the noise of everyday life and focus on something practical and enjoyable.
Spaces like this often hold tools, spare parts, workbenches, and all the bits and pieces that tend to collect over time. But more than that, they become places of creativity and problem-solving.
In a busy world full of screens and pressure, having a simple space to build, fix, or just think can be really valuable. It’s less about “manliness” or labels, and more about having a place where you can unwind, create, and reset.
In the end, whether it’s a shed, a garage, or a workshop, it becomes a small personal refuge — a place to restore focus, enjoy simple projects, and take a break from the demands of life.
Amen.
Flying Cars
Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could fly around like The Jetsons in flying cars? What once felt like pure science fiction is slowly moving toward reality as technology continues to develop
The idea of no longer being stuck in long traffic jams on busy motorways is certainly appealing — no more sitting in heat, listening to horns, and crawling forward inch by inch. Instead, the vision is personal transport that can travel both on the road and in the air.
A Dutch company is currently developing and taking orders for a flying car concept. While prices vary depending on the model, early estimates suggest it could be in the range of several hundred thousand dollars. It is also expected that a pilot’s licence would be required, since these vehicles function more like light aircraft than traditional cars.
Some of these designs are described as being similar to a small aircraft or helicopter, with features such as dual controls, flight displays (EFIS), and safety systems designed for both road and air travel.
They aim to combine the feel of a sports car with the functionality of vertical or short take-off flight.
Speeds and altitudes vary depending on the model, but some concepts are designed to reach
cruising altitudes similar to light aircraft. The goal is to make them as safe and practical as possible for everyday use, although they are still in early stages of real-world adoption.
It’s an exciting development — a blend of automotive and aviation engineering that could change how we think about transport in the future.
GAMER DAD
“Gaming dads” are becoming more common in today’s world. Many young fathers enjoy video games as a way to relax after a long day of work and responsibility, often while still being present at home with their families.
For some, gaming isn’t just a hobby — it’s also a way to stay connected with friends and work colleagues online, especially through cooperative or competitive multiplayer games. In many cases, it provides a low-cost, at-home form of entertainment that fits around family life.
There is also a growing trend of parents involving their children in their interests, including gaming. This can sometimes become a shared activity that helps strengthen family connection, communication, and understanding of modern digital life.
Of course, like anything, balance is important. While gaming can be a healthy way to unwind, it should not replace time with family, rest, or other responsibilities. But for many households, it is simply another form of downtime after work — much like watching TV or listening to music.
Some people may view gaming as immature, but attitudes are changing as technology becomes more central to everyday life. What once was seen as a niche hobby is now a mainstream form of entertainment across all ages.
Ultimately, each family finds its own rhythm. What matters most is presence, responsibility, and making sure home life remains stable, healthy, and connected.
Mustang' Sally
One of the most iconic is the 1964–65 Ford Mustang Coupe, often referred to as the original “Pony Car.” This first-generation Mustang was introduced in the mid-1960s and quickly became a cultural and automotive icon. With its long bonnet (hood), short rear deck, and sporty proportions, it captured the attention of drivers and enthusiasts around the world.
Early models offered a range of engines, including inline-six options and V8 configurations. Depending on the setup, power outputs varied, with the V8 versions delivering the performance and sound that helped define the Mustang’s reputation. Transmissions included manual and automatic options, giving buyers flexibility for both cruising and performance driving.
Inside, the Mustang was designed to be both stylish and accessible. Features commonly included bucket seats, a simple but functional dashboard layout, an AM radio, and a floor-mounted gear shifter. Buyers could also choose from various trim options, including upgraded upholstery, woodgrain-style accents, and additional interior styling packages.
Optional features over the early years included items such as sun visors, upgraded mirrors, centre consoles, and other comfort and convenience additions that made the car feel more personalised.
The Mustang helped define the American muscle and pony car era — combining style, affordability, and performance in a way that appealed to a wide audience. It remains, to this day, one of the most recognised and loved classic cars, especially among Ford enthusiasts and muscle car collectors.
What do you want to do in life? I often find myself asking that question. For me, it has led to something simple but meaningful — a kind of bucket list. Not because I feel life is ending, but because I want to be intentional with the life God has given me, and open to new experiences and callings along the way.
The first thing on my list is actually this magazine. I stepped into it as something new, and unexpectedly found myself not only contributing ideas but also writing. I never really saw myself as a writer, but sometimes God leads us into places we did not plan for, and we discover gifts we did not know we had.
Another desire on my heart is to be involved in relief work — helping people in impoverished nations, especially in the Pacific. I believe we are called to serve others, to be the hands and feet of Christ, and to care for those in need. “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). That remains a strong reminder of what matters most.
I have also long felt a desire to go on a pilgrimage, particularly to the Holy Land and other places of deep spiritual significance. To walk in places where Scripture unfolded would be a time of reflection, gratitude, and closeness to God — a journey not just of distance, but of faith.
A bucket list, in this sense, is not just about achievement. It is about discernment — paying attention to the quiet callings in our hearts and being willing to respond when God opens a door. It is about writing down the things that stir something within us, and then trusting Him with the timing and outcome.
Life is not only about what we accomplish, but about how we grow, serve, and walk with God along the way. So I continue to add to my list, prayerfully and hopefully, trusting that each step is part of a greater journey already known to Him.
Four things so far — and by His grace, many more to come.
The Mancave
Most of us need somewhere to step back, slow down, and recharge. Life can become busy, noisy, and demanding, and without rest it is easy to become worn out — mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually.
In a simple sense, this is what many people call a “man cave” — a personal space to retreat, unwind, and find peace. But beyond the label, it is really about something deeper: the need for rest and restoration.
Even in Scripture, we see the importance of stepping away from the noise of life. Jesus Himself often withdrew to quiet places to pray and be alone with the Father. If the Son of God made time for rest and solitude, then surely we also need moments to pause, reflect, and be renewed.
A personal space at home — whether it is a room, a shed, or a quiet corner — can become a place of calm and balance. It might hold hobbies, books, music, or simple comforts that help settle the mind. For me, it includes computers and small projects, but more importantly, it is a place to think clearly and reset.
Rest is not selfish. It is part of God’s design. We are not created to be constantly running on empty. Instead, we are invited to “be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). In stillness, we often find clarity, peace, and renewed strength.
These moments of retreat are not about escaping responsibility, but about restoring ourselves so we can return with patience, wisdom, and a better spirit toward others.
In that sense, a quiet personal space becomes more than just a room — it becomes a small reminder that rest is holy, and renewal is necessary.
The Domesticated Man
In today’s world, many things have shifted in how families live, work, and support one another. Roles within the home are no longer as fixed as they once were, and families often have to adapt to the realities of income, cost of living, and the needs of children.
Traditionally, many households followed a pattern where the father worked outside the home and the mother cared for the children. But today, we see a wider range of family arrangements. In some homes, the mother works while the father stays at home to care for the children. Each family finds its own way of functioning according to what is needed.
From a Christian perspective, what matters most is not the label or the role, but faithfulness in the calling God has placed before each person. Scripture reminds us that every good work, whether seen or unseen, has value when it is done with love and devotion unto the Lord (Colossians 3:23).
A father who stays at home to care for his children is not lesser in calling or purpose. In many ways, he is entrusted with a sacred responsibility — to nurture, protect, and guide young lives during their formative years. Likewise, those who work to provide financially are also serving their families in a meaningful and honourable way. Both roles require sacrifice, patience, and commitment.
Raising children in a safe, stable, and loving environment is a blessing and a stewardship. Having a parent present at home can be a great gift to children, offering them attention, guidance, and security in their early development.
Even in my own reflection, I see that God works through many different family arrangements. What matters is not conformity to a single pattern, but obedience to God’s leading, love within the home, and care for one another.
We are reminded that our identity is not found in cultural expectations, but in Christ. Each family is uniquely shaped, and each role — whether in the workplace or within the home — can be a place of worship when lived out faithfully.
So whether one is working to provide or staying home to raise children, both can be holy callings when done with love, humility, and dedication before God.
Peace and God bless.
De Lorean
The DeLorean DMC-12 is a car many people will recognise from the 1980s film Back to the Future, starring Michael J. Fox. In the movie, the DeLorean is famously modified into a time machine by Dr Emmett “Doc” Brown, allowing Marty McFly to travel through time in a story filled with adventure and humour.
In reality, the DeLorean was never a time machine — it was a real sports car with a very distinctive design. Around 9,000 units were produced in total, making it a relatively rare vehicle today.
One of its most iconic features is its stainless steel body panels, which gave the car its unique metallic finish. Instead of traditional painted bodywork, the brushed steel look made it instantly stand out from other cars of its era.
Another standout feature is its gull-wing doors, which open upwards rather than outwards. This design gives the car a futuristic appearance, even by today’s standards.
Production of the DMC-12 began in the early 1980s at a factory in Dunmurry, Northern Ireland, with the first cars completed around 1981. However, production ended by 1983 due to financial difficulties and high manufacturing costs.
For many who grew up in that era, the DeLorean wasn’t just a car — it became a symbol of futuristic imagination, especially after its appearance in Back to the Future. It captured the idea of what people thought the future might look like.
And while it may not talk or travel through time, like KITT from Knight Rider — another iconic futuristic car — it still holds a special place in automotive and pop culture history.
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