Just some thoughts on PFTH

[CaroleJ]

Fellow forum members, I don't know why, but I feel moved to share my own thoughts on Projects From The Heart.

When we decide to do something kind or charitable, we take on the responsibility to do the best we can with what we have. We can donate time, energy, money, materials. When we are in a position to be able to give, that is truly a blessing.

Many of us have fallen on hard times. Many of us have had losses and heartaches in our families, or problems with our health. Sometimes we are in a place in life where we are dealing with physical or emotional pain and don't have time or other resources to spare. It happens to us all. It doesn't mean we don't care about giving; rather, it is a reminder that 'to everything there is a season'.

Life ebbs and flows, through good times and bad. Sometimes we can give, other times we can't. There are times when we begin a project, either by initiating or joining in, with the full intention of seeing it through to the finish line. Our motives are of the highest caliber. Sometimes, though, we are presented with unexpected obstacles that life so often hands out.

If we need to withdraw from a project because of changes in circumstances, it is easier on everyone if we notify others promptly, and try to find someone who can take over a project, either temporarily, or all the way to the finish. It is better, IMO, to withdraw graciously and hand the project over to someone else, rather than let the project go belly-up completely.

It is also the responsibility of each of us to be aware of what is going on in our own lives BEFORE we commit to participating in a PFTH. Maybe you'll be going on a trip...maybe a family member will be needing you for help (surgery, new baby)...maybe you are changing jobs or moving. It is okay NOT to participate in a project if you are already feeling overwhelmed.

We cannot see into each others' heads and hearts. What seems a 'no-brainer' to some may seem like a huge obstacle to someone else. We should not judge others who either choose to accept, to decline, or to withdraw from, projects that are born from compassion and caring. Neither should we judge *ourselves* for choosing NOT to participate in a particular project if we don't have the time, energy, etc., to do so.

PFTHs are not meant to induce guilt or resentments; they are meant to bring joy. Again, there are many ways to participate. If you can't make a block, perhaps you could donate batting, or send a dollar or two for thread. Even something as simple as dropping a card in the mail or taking a moment to send a PM can touch a heart and bring comfort.

Okay, I have had my say, for what it's worth. No offense or finger pointing meant. Just something for all of us to think about.

With deepest respect to all here,
Carole

[Cathy32078]

I understand and agree Carole. I myself have felt very guilty that I have not been able to participate in a couple of the projects. Not only did I feel guilty, but I felt ashamed when I saw the list of names listed & my name was not on there because it looked as if I did not care, but the truth was so very different.

I totally sgree with you & understand where you are coming from. A card or a hand written letter/note sealed in an envelope to the recipient, sent to the Hostess of the project if a person can't sew or send money or wharever, is a way they could participate & be included.

Hugs Hugs

[Tulpje]

*Smile*

((CJ)) I could not have said it any better. Thank you for taking the time and energy, in your allready very busy life, to compose this post.

The last prject I did, I missed hearing from a few of our fellow Angels, but I just KNEW they would wanted to be included, so I added a 'By Default' list from the ones I just knew they wanted to be IN my latest 'El's Angles' project.

Maybe it is sometthing to consider to add names from the ones that you know who would Love to participate, but life is in their way?

As you know, this week I was on the receiving end of my very own 'Binkie'. While Jeff read off the names to me it made me release a lot of 'cropped-up' sadness and tears. (Very therapuetic)...In my Heart I knew that it included ALL the El's Angels that would have wanted to participate into the Love on my very own 'Binkie'

One of these days I will share with many of you WHY I named my quilt of comfort my very own 'Binkie'.

Once again, Thank You *CJ* for this post.

*T*

[maryq]

CaroleJ

Thank you so much for your wonderfully worded post. There have been so many times that I have wanted to join in an Angel project and found that I just couldn't fit it in. There was also a project I promised a gift for and ended up not being able to complete---and I felt and still do feel terrible. But as you say, life ebbs and flows. Sometimes I think I have lots of time to get a project done, then something comes up and bam....all my good intentions go out the window. I absolutely HATE it when I can't finish something I promise--so I try to be very careful what I volunteer for.

I have been the receipient (sp) of a very wonderful gift of a sewing machine a couple years ago from some of the gals here on the forum and in my heart I feel I have to put it to good use--to participate in PFTH as much as I can. There are so many worthy causes out there that I'd love to be able to contribute too, but alas not enough hours in the day.


Please know that my heart is with all of the special projects here!

Marymargaret

[lorettav]

I also agree.

[DouceFleur1]

I agree too and feel the same, guilty, ashame when I can't participate or wasn't aware and would have love to participate also.

You said exactly how I feel. Thanks for your post!

Love & hugs

Denise

[CaroleJ]

Good thoughts and prayers are ways to contribute as well! We need to remember how precious even the simplest of gifts can be, and not let guilt or shame mar our desire to share.

Seems no one has taken offense to my post thus far...I thought long and hard before hitting the 'add' button. Relieved that my words are being taken in the spirit of love in which they were written. <whew!>

[teacupdelights]

Right on.

[katiekoala]

what a wonderful post Carol and it does say everything that has or needed to be said. thanks kathy