The Crafting Journey (part D)

 In a post I wrote several years ago (Pinterest and More), I talked about who I am- my titles like mom, and wife, and friend. So often in our culture, we are defined by what we do. What is the first thing people ask when we make small talk? What do you do?

What do I do? What if instead of saying my job or one of the titles I have, I said "I am a crafter?" I think the answer to that question is because we don't think that our crafting and our journeys as crafters are important enough to warrant a title. I think often we demean our crafting because it is "Just a hobby" or "It's nothing special." Why do we do that?

Our crafting IS important. There are some people who make money from crafting, and if you do- I am proud of you! I personally don't make money from crafting because I feel that I do not knit fast enough to make money! Also, knitting brings me such joy, I feel that if I did knit for money, I would lose joy I find in my projects and ultimately end up resenting the idea and forfeit my enjoyment of knitting.

A few years ago, I found a group of makers that make stuff for charities throughout our area. The group consists of knitters, sewers, and crocheters (and maybe other makers too). I am a part of this group and it makes my heart happy to know that all the items we make are given to those in need in the Edmonton area. My crafting (collectively our crafting) makes a difference, that is why we shouldn't demean our crafting journeys. We make a difference! 

I think from now on, I am not going to be dissmissive about my crafting journey. I am a knitter and I am proud of that. My knitting isn't just important to me, it is important to those around me who are blessed to receive something I made. 

Keep on being a maker- it is important!

Melanie

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