Sunday, May 16, 2010

Nests

A nest is a place of refuge to hold an animal’s eggs and/or provide a place to live or raise offspring. They are usually made of some organic materials such as twigs, grass, and leaves.

How appropriate that my beautiful bird’s nest from Vicki of 2 Bags Full came this week. A week in which I’ve done a lot of thinking about nests – human nests – and what makes us long for our nest when we can’t be in it. Is it because we feel so comfortable there? In familiar surroundings with all of the things we love nearby? Do we feel safe there? It should be our place where nothing bad happens – we are protected from the world outside the door. When we near the end of our lives, do we just wish to die in a familiar place where we are comfortable? Preferably with a loved one holding our hand as we pass from one world to the other?

As my step-father lies in a hospital bed several hours away from his ‘nest’ and talks about wanting to go home – “Maybe they will let me out of here tomorrow – I’m going to talk them into it.” he says hopefully – and I have to tell him no, you won’t be going yet – maybe next week – not telling him the whole truth yet – that he will not be going home but into a rehabilitation center for awhile first. Not telling him yet that he will need another operation in order to stay alive even for a few more years. Knowing that he will put up a fight and insist on going home even though he will not be able to take care of himself – and there is no one who can stay there with him. Dreading that I will have to be firm with him – stripping him of just that much more of his dignity and independence. My mind is crying out, “It isn’t fair, not to me and certainly not to him!” But I guess as they say – life isn’t fair, it’s just there to be got through. And we must somehow find spots of joy in each day in order to survive it all.

One of my spots of joy this week was the wonderfully creative bird’s nest with two tiny blue eggs inside made by Vicki. Every type and color of fiber under the rainbow is in this nest. One day it will have a more graceful branch to live on but for now, this one will have to do. You may see much better pictures of Vicki's knitted nests on her blog .  I hope it brings you a spot of joy!





Untie a ribbon in your life – you might find an adventure!

4 comments:

  1. Dearest Jill - what a meaningful description you have given to the term nest - a word that to me means a place of home and comfort -not only to our self, but our soul.

    I do not envy you the situation with your beloved grandparent. I have lived that life - (been there, done that!) and I can tell you that it is a rough and emotional road that lies ahead for you all. You will be in my prayers as you endeavor to provide a place of comfort and necessary care for your grandfather.

    Thank you for posting the lovely pictures of the nest that I made for you. It is so much fun for me to see them displayed, lovingly in their new homes. How very perfect is this little display!

    Enjoy your little nest, and know that it was made with affection and my very best wishes to my new friend.

    Vicki

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  2. Sometimes life can be so hard :-( I kept my Mum at home until I could no longer give her the special care she needed. I tried so hard to keep her home until the end. Hugs to you. A very unusual and pretty nest it must take talent not to make it look contrived :-)

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  3. You are in a tough place right now, friend. I sense that you will handle this with compassion and love as you have done before. :)Bea

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  4. I will most certainly keep your step-father in my prayers, that's such a tough situation.

    Hugs,
    Anne

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