Build a Better Mouse Trap

The old saying is, “"Build a better mousetrap and the world will beat a path to your door.” Is that ever true – I stand to testify of the brilliance of one company – or man – or woman – that it can be done.

Since I can remember our family has always used the old Victor Mouse Trap – made of a simple wire spring trap mechanism mounted on a small piece of wood. When the bait is placed on the trigger the mouse is dispatched quickly. It has worked well from what I have witnessed in 63 years. That is until this new breed of smarter and more resourceful mice have developed near my garage.

On May 23, 2007 I shared with you the one short account of Mr. Mouse and how he has avoided the traps that I have set for him. Well as of Saturday, June 2, 2007 – my garage is heavily armed with the brand new, “Wilson Predator Snap-E” Mouse trap. Last evening the little cup was loaded with the delicious peanut butter that Mr. Mouse and his family love so much. The trap was loaded and ready to go.

BINGO – this morning the trap had done its work. Mr. Mouse stepped up to the new “Buffet a la garage” and he was a goner. The fact that some one said , “The trouble is that a mouse’s tongue is long enough that he can take the bait from the old fashioned trap.” – caused the new design to take place. With the new trap Mr. Mouse steps on to the small platform around the cup and BINGO – it is all over. He never even got to taste the buffet of crunchy peanut butter.

Instead of the regular two for two dollar mouse traps – this one was a hefty $6.03 (including the tax). But already it has paid for itself. The BINGO feeling was worth it all.

I have been thinking of how many other areas in my life that could better if I was to try something newer – better designed and better built. I have found a few things that need some changing. But change is hard.

I am comfortable with what I know. I am happy because I understand. It un-nerves me to spend money on something that is way more in price – and that I have no idea that it will work or not.

Life is like that for most of us. We are happy to stay the same. We want it to be simple and familiar. New is real hard – and if costs more that will kill us.

Such simple thinking about the complicated ways that humans are – is fascinating to watch.

Recently a great coffee drinker, “Paul Kind”, developed the “Rim Roller” (reference and story below).

My daughter gave me one of these amazing inventions – which I proudly carry on my key chain – ready to roll up any rims anywhere. I used it in Africa and all over Canada so far. Wherever I pull this thing out – I am amazed that people actually want to know more of where and how and why about the Rim Roller. Thank you Paul Kind – may your business be successful and may you sell many Rim Rollers.

This afternoon I am going to my garage to work on a new idea. I have been thinking about …. Hmmm? Mouse traps and Rim Rollers are gone – but I have an idea.

~ Pastor Murray Lincoln ~

Rim Roller - http://www.leevalley.com/gifts/page.aspx?c=2&p=56683&cat=4,104,53210