December 20th, 2022
THE STORY BLANKET
When I look at my life I can see God’s hand throughout it. I see life as a tapestry, the weaving of lives, experiences, hopes and dreams. When we live by faith, often we can’t see where our paths will take us in life. If we allow ourselves the opportunities to sit with our thoughts and memories, to gaze at the roads we have traveled, patterns can emerge. I see a vast array of colors, patterns and textures of my life so far. I see the sprouting of friendships as they grow and blossom, even through the changes of seasons. I have had times of drought, fatigue and restlessness. I have experienced joy beyond measure, the kind that cannot be contained only felt.
I recently read a story called, “the story blanket,” after I read it, embers within me began to spark and this post was created.
I thought of the Bible story of Joseph and the robe his father had made specifically for him. This was an ornate robe made of many colors. I just guessing here, but I believe that robe was made of cloth that had been part of the family, it had traveled with them and was part of the family. A tapestry of the family’s life and experiences. “Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colors.” —Genesis 37:3 (NKJV)
Click this link to view different bible translation of Genesis 37:3 https://biblehub.com/genesis/37-3.htm
Then, my thoughts took me to story of the birth of Jesus, in Luke 2:12 “And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” (NKJV)
Depending upon which translation you read, the word “swaddling” is also referred to as strips of cloth or bands of cloth. One thing I am certain of, the cloths were a tapestry all it’s own. And, now these simple strips of cloth…are the clothes of a King! Click this link to view different bible translation of Luke 2:12, https://biblehub.com/luke/2-12.htm
Lastly, I wanted to share my “blanket story” it is a blanket my aunt and cousin had made for me. It contains clothing my mom had worn to work and around the house. When I look at it I see more than a blanket, it’s a story of my mom. A tapestry of woven common cloths that I had previously seen my mom wearing. What a priceless gift given out of love. My mom passed away over ten years ago but she lives on in my memories and in every beat of my heart. She carried me, taught me, supported me, worried over me, and congratulated me on every success. She was my cheerleader in life and these memories as well as my blanket keep me warm and protected. My mom was a gift, God knew I needed her wisdom to prepare me for life.
Indianapolis International Airport
February 13, 2018
When I scan other skies
for signs of hope,
and when I walk other paths
with a longing for home,
God of the exile,
lead me back
through my own door.
Tell me
my forgotten stories,
feed me
the words I have given away,
and draw my gaze
from the far horizon
that I may see the lights
in my own sky.
- Jan Richardson
Friends, thank you for visiting my blog today. Thank you for you patience as my posts are bit behind. I love sharing stories with you and I am so very thankful for you support and encouragement. May the PEACE of God surround you always~
~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.
HOPE SEEKER 