The Quilt

     This patchwork quilt was pieced together during 2022 but put into the old fashioned frame to be hand-quilted out by me during the cold winter months beginning 2023.  However, as of yet, we have had no substantial cold weather to keep me inside long enough to get it completed. 

     This quilt reminds me of the pieces of life we put together.  We start with no idea of the finished product, but however the pieces fall together, they somehow connect into a design we learn to live with.  Each hand-stitch is different.  In my case, some are long stitches while others are short.  I hate to admit it, but some are even crooked.  Often, not liking the stitch, I pull out a few and restitch them in an attempt to make them look better.  It does not take long for my pricked fingers to become sore, with one or two crusted over from the needle sticks.  A thimble is a necessary tool.
     Persistence is what it takes to get a completed project.  We simple take one stitch at a time, hour after hour and day after day, excited about finally getting it out of the frame. However, the project is still not completed.  It has to be trimmed and evened up with a finishing border attached.    

     My point: In life God prepares the pieces- we either follow His instructions or plan our own design.  In following our own design, we often have to pull out the stitches, starting over.  The process of life is done in seconds, minutes, and days.  We get pricked with the thorns of life.  If we let Him, God is our shield (our tumble). Only God can put the correct finishing touches on our life's design.