Tuesday Morning, September 20, 2011

 

Beloved:

     I’ve begun a new quilt, a pattern called Broken Star Log Cabin; 64 blocks made of 17 slivers of fabric.  The largest sliver is 5”x1”.   The smallest is 1”x1”.   That’s 1,088 pieces of fabric to be cut, sorted, marked and sewn together.  I intend to hand piece and quilt it so I figure it will take at least two years, possibly 10, to complete. Numbering the blocks as I go, I will see my stitches improve, hopefully getting tinier and straighter over time. 

     Because it’s fun, that’s why!  The focus required, the slow progress, the quiet, the fabric and the simple tools; it’s a project deeply satisfying to some part of my spirit.  My hands crave the work and my mind the relief from bigger thoughts.  It’s restful and productive and all for me.   It can sit in it’s shoebox for months, waiting patiently, without judgment. I can neglect it indefinitely and nobody cares whether I finish it or not.

      The rest of my life is the very opposite.  Projects done well are done on time, or early.  Expense is a constant consideration;  time and money are always tight.  Improvement happens in the short term.  One item crossed off the to-do list is replaced by two more. Mission creep, I think it’s called, when the project keeps growing. 

       How strange that such meaningless activity can create so much space in a life. Could it be the design of Sabbath; the very practice of being set aside for awhile; absent, idle and aware of how little space I occupy in the world?  I return not only refreshed but a little more humble and grateful for the reminder that God has everything in hand.

      I pray this lovely, rainy, fall day is full of gratitude among God’s people.  peace & prayers, pastor annette

        
If you're interested, here's the quilt pattern:

        http://webstore.quiltropolis.net/stores_app/Browse_Item_Details.asp?Shopper_id=3375818516413375&Store_id=421&page_id=23&Item_ID=1796