Years ago, my mom made a homemade quilt. It was one of many she created with the love and skill like you've never seen. It's quite a work of art and because I know full well it was made with the love and precision she was known for with her quilting. It's on our bed right now. King size for the Kings' and the comfort we are feeling right now just having it in the bedroom is beyond my comprehension. It is a tie that will forever bind me to my mother and to many other people who have crossed my path. See, it cultivates gratitude. It cultivates the love I have for a great many people. This is why I have a huge appreciation for those who have the attention span to accomplish what I deem the impossible.
It's interesting how certain items keep us close to those we loved and still love. Reminders that I need to live for the "now." Of course I need to acknowledge my wedding band and engagement ring. Trust and strength are represented with those rings. When I had my cancer scare, King gave me this gorgeous glass lotus flower. It sits on my desk and I focus on it each morning. He knew I would heal. My sister gave me knitted socks she made for Christmas. How I love using them. How they comfort me. My other sissy weaved me place mats and potholders a towels. They protect me and make cooking so much happier. I have two t-shirts that have "Paris" written on them from my college sister, my good friend for over 40 years. A former colleague have me candles that say "Paris" on the jar and when I burn them, I keep that goal alive. A former colleague/friend of mine gave me a bracelet when I was being cancer-treated. It read, " She needed a hero, so she became one." These are the ties that remind me that love is present and love matters.
It's not about "things." It used to be in my youth but not now. Now. all that matters are reminders that I exist and that I can love and am loved. Tonight, when I am sleepy and nestle in my bed, I will have the comfort of a quilt that reminds me that love is all that matters. The proof is in the quilt.
