Open Hands, Painted Papers, Collaged Card, Marcia Carole
I have returned my attention to mixed media, or collage, in order to continue to make the comfort cards. I think the process of making the cards will be helpful for internalizing some concepts when considering how we should care for those we know in crisis, or dark or difficult situations. Collage is a medium that young and old can enjoy. Artists create using collage to share a personal story or idea, so there is no right or wrong way of laying down colors and shapes.
Today, I am working with hands, perhaps cutting out a number of open hands in order to visually create the idea of “Offering to serve.” The card will represent the O in the set of COMFORT cards. I am thinking of changing my original idea to “Open hands” for a number of reasons. Our hands are open to what the Lord will give us, our hands are open to use the “talents” He has given us to serve and create, our hands are open to comfort or express love. Our hands are open to God’s plans. Our hands are open to worship our Artist Maker when serving others.
I have encountered so many family and friends with open hands of love and service on my cancer journey. What can I do, they ask. May I mow your lawn? May I bring you a meal? May I pray with you? May I walk with you? May we paint your kitchen? May I put this piece of furniture together? May I set up your living room? May I read to you? How about a movie? Would you like this fluffy, yellow chick? They give open hands which represent their open hearts for service.
I have to take breaks throughout my creating day, however. This new medication is not as harsh as chemo, but it does cause some fatigue at odd times; it sneaks up on me and catches me by surprise. The cancer is sort of like a little, sneaky stream trickling in and out of my day. As I make art, I forget I even have it; I am deep on the right side of my brain. Then, it streams past me in a whisper, “You’re tired. Rest.” I must keep my hands open even to this, so, I turn off my studio light, and take my hands up to bed for a nap.
Because your love is better than life,
my lips will glorify you.
I will praise you as long as I live,
and in your name I will lift up my hands. Psalm 63:3,4
It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don’t use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that’s how freedom grows. Galatians 5:13 The Message Bible
Yes, I’d love that fluffly, yellow chick!
