Although my typing and knitting has been hampered for the past few weeks by the development of carpal tunnel symptoms, there’s been inspiration coming from various quarters. Bev’s enthusiastic support for the TikkunTree Project encouraged Birdsong to pledge a few leaves from her handspun wool. And Birdsong’s support similarly inspired Nana Sadie (aka KnitNana), whose eloquent reflections are worth sharing in their entirety:
Besides the fact that I adore Peace Fleece yarns, I am very committed to the idea of and philosophy behind this project. I’m ordering my yarns, and getting the patterns ready. (Patterns & specifications are available on each link)
I firmly believe that knitting for peace is an effective means of being a change-agent in the world. As is creating art installations that address peace. I seldom speak of my religious leanings or beliefs on my blogs, but the idea of knitting in silence, meditating on peace and speaking out as the spirit moves, harkens back to my Universalist/Quaker/Congregationalist New England family roots. As such, it blends well with my study of Buddhism, and Taoist thought, as well as my feminist/womanist/goddess thealogy.
While I’ll still participate in (and co-lead) Cloths for Crisis and Knit Red for Women’s Heart Disease, this project will hold the majority of my charity knitting energy for the 2008 year.
If we can’t find it in our hearts to live, eat, breathe, and pray PEACE, then we can’t be surprised if it fails us. Anger and war, hatred and fear, begin in the hearts of each of us. Won’t you join us? Take up your needles to help heal* the world?
The relationship of Nana Sadie and Birdsong, “serendipitous [virtual] sisters from different mothers…all across the country from each other – on the two coasts”, describes some of my recent experience sharing the TikkunTree Project. As I’ve attempted to distribute information, shared “calling cards”, purchased materials, answered email inquiries, or walked about the city knitting Safed leaves or other Patterns for Peacebuilders, I have had many conversations about people’s desire to see peace in the middle east, to contribute to it in some way in their own lives, to knit, crochet, embroider, felt or sew for peace, to teach for peace. I have grown my own virtual knitting family – sisters and brothers – in just the past few weeks. Welcome also to Emma, whose kind words and generous support is very much appreciated.
The TikkunTree is supported by and shelters an amazing, growing family.
Leave a comment