“There is nothing like knitting or sewing to give on the opportunity of using time in two ways at once. Perhaps you have to go to committee meetings which take a long time, board meetings or any meetings where you do not need to take notes, where you presence is reuired for votes and possible comments and where you really sit and listen and think without much to do with your hands. The time can be doubly well employed if you have some sewing, knitting or embroidery with you.” The Hidden Art of Homemaking by Edith Schaeffer, ch. 12.
“I found myself reaching for my knitting at all times, but especially when I prayed. I still pray better with needles in my hands. Rows stand for worship, thanksgiving, petition, confession, renewal, people, problems, wisdom, insight character memory verses. Some people keep a prayer jurnal. My prayer journal is knitted into ridges and rows.” The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert by Rosaria Butterfield.
I’m not a knitter or a seamstress, but this idea is lovely–using one’s hands to accompany one’s mind and prayers, to stay occupied and engaged while praying or listening, to be able to calm the thought that often comes to me during prayer, “Oh, but I should be doing something!”
I came out of my teens with the adage, “Idle hands are the devil’s workshop.”
I find that no one where I live ever seems to be carrying handwork with them when they go anywere, meetings, visiting, out for coffee. I’ve fallen out of the habit. Perhaps it’s time to revisit it.
Blessings,
Laura of Harvest Lane Cottage
I crocheted a full size blanket, much of it while riding the bus. It was an interesting conversation starter as lots of people wanted to know what I was making and the people who I saw often would check in on my progress. I’ve seen a few other people knitting/crocheting on the bus, but not too many.
I do most of my crocheting while watching tv. There are some shows I like, but I can’t just sit and watch, so it is nice to have something to do that is also productive.