If you open up your word processing software and start typing, chances are you're looking at a typeface called Times New Roman. It's so common that we take it for granted, but this super-typeface has an interesting origin story.

It all began with a complaint. In the 1920s, the esteemed type designer Stanley Morison criticized London's newspaper The Times for being out-of-touch with modern typographical trends. So The Times replied to his complaint by asking him to create something better. Morison took up the challenge. He enlisted the help of expert draftsman Victor Lardent and began conceptualizing a new typeface with two goals in mind: efficiency and readability. Morison wanted any printing in his typeface to be economical, a necessity in the newspaper business.

In 1926, The Times tested an early version of Morison's new type. After test upon test and proof upon proof, the final design was approved, and "The Times New Roman" was born. In 1932, The Times specifically noted that their new typeface was not intended for books. But at 82 years old, Times New Roman is still going strong, proving that sometimes there's something better than criticism: become part of the solution instead.

Possible Preaching Angles: Be careful what you criticize. Be careful when you complain and murmur. God may ask you to be part of the solution to the problem you criticize.