A patchwork of warmth and hope – in 10-inch squares
During a difficult time, an old quilt brought their family together.
from the June 12, 2007 edition
Page 3 of 3
Some quilt patterns, like ocean waves and building blocks, are expected to seem to shift. But not basket quilts.
Yet, the busy green and gold print blocks stepped forward to join with the little triangles of the baskets' borders, forming pedestals while the baskets disassembled to fade into the background.
Pounding up the stairs, I roused my slumbering mate and children.
I forcefully marched unwilling male feet down the stairs and lined them up where I had stood to witness the midnight revelation. Sleep-filled eyes finally focused on the quilt and together, as a family, we watched the fabrics perform.
"Well, I'll be...."
"You see it, too?"
"I see it, Mom! The fish is gone!"
"But wait," I said. "It is there. Just look again."
Impressed with the midnight revelation, we ignored the call of a new day and stood together before the quilt.
We encircled one another with our arms, shared warmth, and drew close. The quilt's illusion transformed us from a knot of angry individuals into a family once again.
I had my sign. If a quilt could change by moonlight, we could change a few financial woes. I was sure of it.
The women of my family faced their own difficulties, and I could do no less.
Now, whenever something seems impossible, I glance at that old quilt, feel family gather around me – and smile.
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