Life is a series of stitches; sometimes woven very tightly so that they will hold fast during hard times. Sometimes the stitches are loose in order to glide smoothly on the fabric of time.
I am knitting a baby blanket for a new grandson who will be making his debut to this world in early October. Many knitters say that once you've learned to knit it's like riding a bicycle, "...you never forget."
I knew how to ride a bicycle and I knew how to knit, but because of a stroke in 1992, at the age of 43, my balance will not allow me to ride like the wind anymore. Because of the stroke, my left hand has lost the coordination to hold the knitting needle. I adapted by learning to hold the left knitting needle between my upper arm and my body.
I am knitting; a little slower perhaps, a little more lovingly with every stitch. I may drop a stitch or two by accident, but I will continue until his blanket is complete. Perhaps, the dropped stitch may be the perfect little place where he can fit his tiny finger through and hold the blanket to his cheek while he sucks his thumb.
The blanket will be a gift. No store can possibly sell this special type of merchandise. No money in the world can offer the therapy, both physical and emotional that I am receiving from making it.
You, too, are able to knit even when you don't think you can. Make your stitches even and strong within your blanket of life. Someone will surely need your handiwork to keep them warm when nights are cold.
Read more from Cleo:
Stroke Rehab: Fun Summer Projects
My Stroke Anniversary: Sixteen Years of Survival
Stroke Recovery: "When Will I Get Better?"
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