Block of the Month Quilt 2011

This year's block of the month quilt didn't really set me on fire. I liked the blocks just fine, but couldn't find the energy to figure out a wonderful way to set all the blocks into a striking quilt. In fact, I had decided I wouldn't even finish it, and would save the time for sewing something I really wanted to sew.

Then I had an extended email conversation with Ray's cousin Kim. She had an idea of somehow using a quilt as an object lesson in church, illustrating how each individual with their own talents is a vital part of the world. Even though they are unique, they still are part of a beautiful whole. Well, we batted around several ideas, and I sent off photos of several quilts, and none really seemed to fit her idea exactly. Finally I said, I have these blocks, and could put them together... Well, from there a few more ideas came to mind, and we decided that was the best plan. 

Then I sent a photo with the blocks on my design wall. Did she want the blocks sewn directly together, or with a narrow sashing between? She chose the sashing, saying she would call that the Faith,  Hope, and Charity that we all share that binds us together as individuals. I have to tell you, she has some amazing ideas. I wish I could hear her lesson. 

I have a whole new appreciation for this quilt. It is simple, but now has some meaning for me. I will never look at it the same way again.

I guess we could carry that into the lesson - isn't that how it is when we get to know and love people? They may not have impressed us initially, but once we know who they truly are we see them through clearer eyes.