 When we start a new knitting/crochet circle in a retirement home, it is always a blessing to meet new ladies and see them develop (or re-develop) an interest in knitting or crocheting – for some a brand new skill, for others a maintained skill, or one not used for many years. In many cases, a purposeful use of effort Dianne and I had been going to this particular home for about a month, when one morning Carla, the activity director, brought in a lady in a wheel chair that we had not yet met. Carla said she had often noticed this lady, Mrs. A, crocheting alone in her room, but that Mrs. A had not wanted to venture out to crochet with the group. Carla had told her about The Encouragement Project hoping Mrs. A would be encouraged to leave her room to join us. This sweet lady had made a few things she wanted to donate to The Project, but had wanted Carla to bring them instead of coming herself. But, Mrs. A had finally been convinced to come, and we were so glad to welcome her. She handed me a large shopping bag and I pulled out an absolutely gorgeous crochet baby blanket, then a lovely scarf, then a lap blanket for someone in a wheelchair. Her eyes sparkled as I told her about where each item would be donated: the baby blanket to a foster home; the scarf to a young person in need of warmth; the lap blanket to someone in a nursing home who needed encouragement. I explained that each item would go with an explanation that someone they didn’t even know had made it especially for them. We thanked her so much for her heart to help someone else. “This gives me hope,” she said, and her eyes glistened as she realized she could still do something to help others. Her joy was contagious! There are so many older people everywhere who still have so very much to offer. Like our new friend, Mrs. A, who only needed to be assured she was wanted and simply asked to participate. Please accept the challenge to look for these very special people, to take time to talk with them, and to benefit from their incredibly beautiful hearts and their wisdom. It will take time (things given), but you will be glad you invested (things received). But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. Hebrews 3:13 We are excited to have Reba Shackelford as a guest writer for The Story Board this month!
Reba is a retired school teacher and administrator, and is currently an adviser for the board of The Encouragement Project. She is always looking for ways to share love and encouragement with those around her. Especially with the elderly. And children. And those in between.
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