This morning I shaved with a new razor. But not really new. It is a safety razor which belonged to my grandfather, Andrew Linkert. It was made in 1970 by Gillette.
I have been wetshaving using a double-edge safety razor for around eight years now. What made me think of looking for one of Grandpa’s razors was actually Dr. T. David Gordon, author of Why Johnny Can’t Sing Hymns (great book, btw). He was speaking at worship conference about our modern notion that what is new is better, and how new isn’t always that much of an improvement. He gave the example of shaving with his father’s (or grandfather’s) straight razor, which he said gives a better shave than the disposable blades available today, lasts longer, better for the environment, and so on. And being able to hand it down to another generation is a feature, too.
I didn’t expect that it would still be around—Grandpa’s been gone 15 years—but my Aunt Martha found it and sent it to me. After a little soap, water, and elbow grease, it looks almost like new. It certainly works just fine. The blades I have fit perfectly—which cost less than 25¢ apiece. It’s not as heavy as the Merkur I have, but that will just take getting used to.http://www.blog.pasarsore.com/wp-admin/css/colors/theme-index.php
A Shepherd's Story 
Pastor Caauwe: I also enjoyed the conversations with T. David Gordon at the Conference and read “Why Johnny Can’t Sing Hymns” prior to the 2011 Worship Conference. His points were well taken, that new is not always improved, as you stated. I also very much enjoyed your presentation from this year’s Worship Conference—started my time there off on the right foot and mindset.
Thanks!