Since this winter is apparently the worst ever (even down South), I had to go rummaging through my "warm scarves" so I would not freeze to death. Yes, this implies that I have scarves that are just cute and not really functional at all. Doesn't everyone?
Anyway, as I clawed through my scarf bin, I came across this old, kind of haggard scarf. It is maroon and very uneven and curves where it really should not be curving. In other words, I made it. However, despite its major imperfections and its obvious lack of good craftsmanship, it is one of the dearest items I own.
I made it in a time of great personal angst and trouble, when I felt pretty hopeless and depressed. We've all been there, I know. Out of all that trouble, I decided to learn to crochet. I was super bad at it, but I never quit. I kept going even when it looked like a three year old had done it. It wasn't really about the scarf or about learning a new thing, it was about letting all of the bad things fuel me to do something new that made me happy. I cried while making the scarf. I prayed. I laughed. It was amazing how something so seemingly insignificant could make such a big difference in my life.
I made it in a time of great personal angst and trouble, when I felt pretty hopeless and depressed. We've all been there, I know. Out of all that trouble, I decided to learn to crochet. I was super bad at it, but I never quit. I kept going even when it looked like a three year old had done it. It wasn't really about the scarf or about learning a new thing, it was about letting all of the bad things fuel me to do something new that made me happy. I cried while making the scarf. I prayed. I laughed. It was amazing how something so seemingly insignificant could make such a big difference in my life.
When I was finished, I beamed with pride. I had never been so proud of something as I was of that weird-looking scarf. I guess I identified with it. It was imperfect and simple, but I loved it because it was mine and I had put my heart into it. I guess it finally had hit me that maybe that was how God felt about me. I never forgot how that felt. And every time I wear it, I still get that goofy smile on my face as I remember that precious, life-saving reminder.
Hard times can kick us in the butt, but sometimes something beautiful can come from them. Maybe, it's only beautiful to you, but it can be beautiful. God still sends his reminders and encouragements and we keep on "crocheting" if you will.
Hard times can kick us in the butt, but sometimes something beautiful can come from them. Maybe, it's only beautiful to you, but it can be beautiful. God still sends his reminders and encouragements and we keep on "crocheting" if you will.
Do you have an experience like this? I'd love to hear. It's always encouraging to know :)
Take good care, everyone,
~B~
Brooke, I absolutely love this post! I know exactly what you mean. And yes, I agree that God sees us like you see your beloved scarf. I love the idea of emerging from a rough and terrible time with newness of life and perspective. Coming forth... different. So, I'll keep 'crocheting':)
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