Lay Here Awhile
Lay Here Awhile Because Loss Leaves a Heartache No One Can Heal!
And love leaves memories no one can steal. The relentless heartache of losing someone you care about can be a lonely journey. A a journey that may get easier to deal with over time but really never ends.
Who do you know that needs to be comforted along the emotional journey of loss?
A New Quilt to Heal
To me, it only made sense to add a sympathy quilt to complement my other Quilts to Heal. I want to create a tangible reminder it’s ok to take time to mourn a loss no matter how long or new the loss is.
I envision each Gift Quilt as more than just quilted soft fabric; they hold sentimental value and are a tools to support our emotional journeys. “Lay Here Awhile” not only offers physical warmth but also brings emotional comfort, enveloping the recipient in a reminder of the love that surrounds them. A gentle reminder that it’s okay to take time to grieve, to find peace, and to honor the memories of loved ones.
Reflection
I see quilts as profound symbols of comfort, love, and the nurturing care we offer one another, especially for those on the difficult journey of grieving.
Designing this quilt was difficult because I recently lost my dad. I wanted it to convey a message of peace, hope, and remembrance, ultimately featuring a woman nestled in the feathers of a dove. The purple color represents dignity and respect, and the back showcases the dove soaring with an olive branch along with the words, “Loss leaves heartache none can heal. Love leaves memories none can steal.” This Gift Quilt embodies empathy, offering warmth and a safe space for reflection, reminding users they are surrounded by love and not alone in their sorrow.
Feel free to read my journal entry, What Loss Has Taught Me: Reflections on Grief and Resilience, as this entire process has prompted deep reflection that I wanted to share.
Grief Support
I wrote another entry in my journal. Supporting Grief: Thoughtful Ways To Offer Comfort
There are many stages of grief and each journey through those stages is different. What I know for sure is the process never really ends. And it is hard on everyone.
And I know all too well that often when people don’t know what to say or do so they do nothing. Which isn’t the answer either. I wanted to share some thoughts on how you can thoughtfully support someone who is navigating their grief, providing comfort well beyond the initial stages of mourning.
It is important to recognize that the grieving process often has no expiration date. As days, weeks, months and even years go by, those who are grieving can continue to feel the weight of their loss.
