And look at where we are now, in 2022. I feel shocked and abhorred by what is happening in Ukraine, and the return of nuclear threat.
I heard a Ukrainian woman living in the Netherlands say on the news, ‘We don’t need your concern, we need your help.’ I never got to work in a post office, but I didn’t become a world leader either. What can we, ordinary citizens, do?
The Open Air Museum houses a small exhibition about knitting for the war effort in 1914. Nobody in their right mind would feel nostalgic about WWI, but at least knitters could make a real difference. The newspaper article below calls on the women and girls of the town of Zeist to knit socks for soldiers, preferably dark grey.
Yes, this all makes me feel very powerless!
I’ve donated by buying some patterns from Ukrainian designers from Ravelry. They don’t need to send you anything, because the files are already on the Ravelry servers, but they will receive the money from it. The idea was shared by Knitty.
http://www.blackbunnyfibers.com/supporting-our-own/?fbclid=IwAR2jr7XIfBJDrzrni-zEE7OQkA7w3JCXFTBXSkJSagq6B7K7pkow3fqbhkM
That’s a great idea, too. Thank you for sharing it.
Sigh…yes. It’s all just so MUCH, but I love that people always find a way to help. I have noticed that several designers are giving the proceeds (or a portion thereof) of their pattern sales to various organizations too, like Save the Children or the Red Cross. You can search for the hashtag #knitforUkraine on Instagram to get started.
I am a praying woman so it is very easy for me to pray and knit at the same time…those two actions together do soothe my soul, but everyone has to find their own best way to cope. Nonetheless, knitting can be a huge part of it and for that, I’m grateful.
p.s. the 1970s living room shot me right back to childhood. Just think, in those days, we thought polyester was a GREAT invention. Makes your teeth hurt to think of it, doesn’t it?
Polyester, nylon, acrylic – yes, we thought those were all wonderful. Funny looking back on that. It’s good to hear about the things you do for others and for yourself. I’m not on Instagram, but will take a look on Ravelry.
Thank you for reminding us of the importance to help as we can & to cherish all that we have. Once again, you help sooth our souls!
Every little thing helps, I hope. Thank you for visiting.
The situation in Ukraine is beyond heart-wrenching. Reading about and watching the the strength of its people is all-consuming. It’s no wonder that your blog entry had this as your topic. What can we do, indeed?
I continue to knit while praying, but feel so powerless during this very fragile situation that is happening in our world.
I would love to knit socks to provide an ounce of comfort for those millions who are fleeing…even if it is one pair at a time…for one person at a time. If you hear of such an endeavor, would you kindly let me know?
Be well, and yes, please continue to write. I look forward to your posts so very much, Marjte.
Powerless, yes, that’s the word. I wish I could comfort someone with a pair of knit socks, too, but at the moment I don’t think that is what is needed. If I hear of any requests I’ll certainly let you know. And no worries, I have so many ideas for things to write about.