Examination

Galatians 6: 1 – 10
Sisters (Brothers), even if a person is caught in some transgression, you who are spiritual should correct that one in a gentle spirit, looking to yourself, so that you also may not be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ. For if anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he is deluding himself. Each one must examine his own work, and then he will have reason to boast with regard to himself alone, and not with regard to someone else;for each will bear his own load.
One who is being instructed in the word should share all good things with his instructor. Make no mistake: God is not mocked, for a person will reap only what he sowsbecause the one who sows for his flesh will reap corruption from the flesh, but the one who sows for the spirit will reap eternal life from the spirit. Let us not grow tired of doing good, for in due time we shall reap our harvest, if we do not give up.So then, while we have the opportunity, let us do good to all, but especially to those who belong to the family of the faith.

I’ve been wanting to write, and have been waiting for the words to come. The words for TerifiCreations have started spilling over again, Noise, being a good word. Today’s word for this blog is Examination. I have to look at myself, what I’m doing, how I’m doing it, and wonder sometimes if it is the right thing. Ultimately everything I do, what I pursue, is up to me. I can, and should take credit for the work I’ve put in to getting here. I’ve had help along the way from mentors, and friends all of whom I’m grateful for. The quilting community is amazing that way. Sometimes I’m wondering if I’m listening or forging ahead doing my own thing wanting the Father to clean up the hot mess that I leave in my wake.

I’ve thought for a while that I’m stuck, and in a way I am. I’ve been holding onto things some good, some not so good, some just amazing. And it’s time to let go of a couple of things, the way they are at this moment, with gratitude for these things. And yes, dear one, I’m being vague because, while there are some changes coming, the look of things will probably not change. This brings me a deep sense of peace, and great joy.

For Catholics, Advent is the beginning of our Liturgical year and a time of sacrifice leading up to the beautiful, joyful celebration of Christmas. This coming Sunday is Gaudete Sunday, a time in the middle of this time of sacrifice to Rejoice, to celebrate this coming gift. It is fitting then, that I take a look at what I’m doing, making sure this is right and that it fits. And I’m rejoicing. I’m grateful for the gift that is given, I’m grateful for so very much in this quilting world of mine.

This looking at, examining, is part of the journey of quilt making. As I mentioned in my other blog (link above) there are many, many people and types of quilting that influence, and inform our quilt making. And there comes a moment when our quilt-making becomes our own. Our own style develops, we make choices, we choose the things that speak to our heart, giving us the greatest sense of freedom in our quilt-making. All of this should give us joy and peace, if it’s not doing that it’s time to let it go. The letting go is good. That does not mean that there will not be a struggle. The struggle is part of the growth.

Gaudete! Rejoice!

God bless,

Teri