Fleeing the South, Margo’s (fictional name, true story) parents also escaped what they referred to as the restrictions of the church. As a result, she did not attend church while growing up in the North—except for Easter. However, during her summer visits to the South, her great-grandmother would plant seeds of faith in her. Grandma, as she was affectionately called, imparted one of Margo’s greatest life lessons.
When Margo was six years old, Grandma enrolled her in the 4-H Club, believing that a bit of home training would benefit her “heathen” great-grandchild. One project required everyone to sew a skirt, and the top three little seamstresses would win a prize.
- Problem #1: Margo’s family was too poor to own a sewing machine.
- Problem #2: They couldn’t afford material to sew; they even had to grow their own food.
Initially, Margo accepted defeat, believing the situation was impossible. But Grandma, who had faith in Jesus and didn’t believe in the word “impossible,” took action. Somehow, she managed to find plaid material and told Margo, “We’ll sew by hand. It’s better than machines.”
So, they sat on Grandma’s big bed and sewed every day (mostly, Grandma sewed while Margo watched). That following Saturday, Margo proudly wore her new skirt to the 4-H Club and walked away with second prize! The judges remarked that she would have won first prize if she had added a zipper, to which Grandma mumbled, “Honey, fetching the material was trouble enough!”
Grandma often said, “Always take what you have and make what you will.” She lived by Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!” Like many of us, Margo faced numerous struggles in life—some she still finds difficult to discuss. Yet Grandma’s wisdom echoed in her mind: “Chile, in those times, remember Christ and me, and pick up your needle (that’s whatever’s at hand) and sew right through those struggles, holding your head up high!”
So my brothers and sisters, recognize the obstacles in your life, just as Margo initially did. Look for what you already have, whether it’s skills, support or contacts, or materials. Take action by using what you have to create a solution, just like Grandma and Margo did. Stay resilient, remembering that perseverance will lead to growth and success. And, reflect on your journey; keep a journal of your struggles and victories to inspire your future actions.
Get up and go sew your way through the struggles, doubts, and challenges—whether it’s dealing with difficult people, crazy thoughts, or deep pits of despair. Pick up your needle of faith and sew through “All things through Christ!”
God bless you!
Pastor Janice Fareed-Hardy