My Afghan Story

Submitted by Tracy S. Swenson, Chrysalis Clubhouse colleague

Earlier this year I had the incredible opportunity to finish the Success Celebration afghan. As I was designing the afghan with all these beautiful granny squares (made my Miles, Mila, Kurt, and Dee previously) a story evolved. 

This is that story. 

We are all familiar with feelings of isolation, loneliness, hopelessness – being in the dark (1. As represented by the empty space at the bottom right corner of the afghan). If we reach out and/or ask for some help we realize there are opportunities reaching back (2. As represented by the black dangles at the bottom right of the afghan.) If we can embrace them, these opportunities can lift us out of the darkness. At first it may feel all mixed up, bits of chaos (3. As represented by the random colors above the black dangles.) When we begin to look at ourselves and engage in wellness, things begin to line up (4. As represented with the colors lining up on the afghan). [NOTE: These colors represent the 8 dimensions of wellness – Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Spiritual, Environmental, Financial, Occupational, and Social.] Things start lining up and low and behold, doors begin to open (5. As represented by the open corner at the top left of the afghan.)

This is a journey. Celebrate every step forward regardless of the size. Sometimes this can lead to backward steps. This is alright – it too, is part of YOUR journey. Discover your truth and rejoice in it. YOU ARE ENOUGH!

This project came at a time I really needed it. It kept me out of my darkness and gave me something very important to do. This experience lifted me up! 

I have an abundance of gratitude in my heart for this project. I am especially grateful for being included in this group of other creative souls – Mila, Miles, Kurt, and Dee. How lucky am I to be in a group of these amazing people! 

Thank you Chrysalis. Thank you Clubhouse. You have changed my life more than you can possibly imagine, thank you friends. 

May you too find the love in this afghan which lives in the big Chrysalis room for all to experience!

[NOTE: Black danglies are also a tribute to the “Fidget Generation” and all those who love to fidget.]