My father was very artistic and loved to paint. He never sold any of his works because he put so much time and effort into them that they were an extension of himself. When he passed away members of the family were finally able to take a part of him with them. The remaining works stayed in the home until after my mother passed in 2019.
As crazy as it may sound, when my father passed that is when I started my path of giving back. Over the years I had given money to various charities like The Cancer Foundation and United Way…only to find out the money was selfishly pocketed instead of actually helping people. When my father died of cancer I wanted to actually do something that would benefit the patients. I remembered how cold he got during treatments and sat down and started crocheting hats and then shawls and have now added lap blankets. When I had collected enough to fill up a large tote, my husband and I took them to our local Cancer Center. The first trip I could not go in, it was just too painful and I wasn’t sure they would even take them. My husband new some of the staff there. He grabbed the tote and I watched as he disappeared behind the glass door. He was gone for what seemed like an eternity when he finally emerged with a big smile on his face. When he expressed how excited the staff were I was relieved. Every year since 2009 we have made that same trip. It was several years later before I actually walked in myself. When a cheerful staff member relayed to me the reactions of the patients I knew the time and effort was worth it.
I don’t give so someone can pat me on the back for it. I give because it is the right thing to do. Sure I could probably make a nice living selling what I make but it is much more meaningful to give it where it is needed.
I am now also making baby blankets that I hope can be used by foster parents and moms that might otherwise not be able to afford them. In addition I also have made one-of-a-kind dolls and bears.
Again, I am not “tooting my own horn” but trying to tell you that your talents are being wasted if you don’t use them for good. It’s not hard.. identify your talent and pair that with a need in your communities. This means you too guys. There is a group of men locally that builds ramps for the disabled and elderly so if you have those carpentry skills…get to sawing!
It is worth the time, expense and challenge to give back.
Have a blessed and beautiful day.
Through My Eyes 