Can Crochet Make a Difference?
August 10, 2011 at 10:33 pm 6 comments
Courtesy of the Wisconsin Historical Society - Katherine (Kate) Quinney crocheting while seated on the running board of a Ford Model T in the yard of her family's farm in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, ca. 1915.
It’s no secret that I like to make pretty things with a hook and yarn. I do it because it makes me happy; I’m pretty good at it; and, it let’s me show others how much I love them or have been thinking of them. It’s also a creative conduit for me – it allows me to release a bit of energy and all of the ideas flooding through my brain.
However, while sitting in the movie theatre tonight, watching The Help, I started to wonder if crochet had the power to make difference. Certainly crochet
- makes people warm
- makes people smile
- makes people feel loved
- makes people feel pretty, sophisticated, etc.
But, do a few stitches have the power to change the world….or at least a country….like a few words can? I am always encouraged when I see or hear stories about ordinary women doing something extraordinary. And, I started thinking about all of those women, going back for generations, doing the seemingly simple task of stitching layettes and sweaters and dresses and sofa coverings and blankets and tablecloths and you name it, and what that meant for their family and for themselves. And, I started thinking about the women who have touched the lives of people they will never meet because they have taken time to crochet for someone in need. And then, I started thinking about the women who fed their families, and even those that fed a nation during the potato famine, from stitching….and then I concluded that YES, crochet can make a difference.
So, when I stitch, it is not some pointless exercise, it is an opportunity to touch the lives of those around me in a positive way. Sometimes, it is an opportunity to feed my family while doing something I love. I may not inspire a nation to change course with my handiwork, but I can spread a bit of the antidote for all of life’s evils because it’s made with love.
Happy Stitching!
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Entry filed under: Crochet in History, Faith and Family. Tags: .
1.
starryblu | August 11, 2011 at 8:19 am
What a beautiful post! You and I share very similar feelings about our stitching. If I love someone, they are covered in yarn =) From hats to slippers, it’s how I show my love. From my children to my church, to people who step into my life and then out again. And all the while it helps to give me an inner peace. I almost feel like I’m cheating sometimes, getting praises sung for the pretty gifts I give. I know that I have been so blessed. What a reward it is, to possess a talent that gives so much in return!
2.
handsindelight | August 11, 2011 at 8:47 am
Funny you say that, because I feel the same way when people “ooh and aah” over my handiwork. For the most part, it was easy for me to do and I enjoyed every minute of it. I learned, though, not to minimize my work….crochet is simply my gift from the Creator. I think everyone finds their ultimate purpose in life comes natural to them – the trick is finding it. I realized this when my son started playing the piano. He is a natural – it’s his gift. He is able to play pieces and comprehend musical concepts way beyond his years because that is the gift he was given. What a joy! Yes, we are so blessed to be able to cover those around us with yarn!
3.
CrochetConcupiscence (@CrochetBlogger) | August 11, 2011 at 2:50 pm
It can definitely be both healing and helpful!
4.
handsindelight | August 11, 2011 at 7:18 pm
So true!
5.
Gabbies | August 11, 2011 at 3:28 pm
I just discovered your site today through Ravelry while looking at pictures of the Lion Brand car coat. Your work is oh, so lovely, but I especially enjoy your written words about crochet. You are one talented lady and I plan to follow your blog. I have really enjoyed it today and getting to read about all your exciting projects. I can’t wait to see your purse in September’s issue! Congratulatons to you.
Gabbies
6.
handsindelight | August 11, 2011 at 7:18 pm
Thank you so much……I really appreciate your kind words.