One consistent observation I’ve made as I’ve aged is my increased inclination towards introspection. This tendency to reflect may be a natural progression with time, yet there are moments when something I see or hear prompts me to pause and contemplate.
Such an instance occurred recently on a late afternoon as I returned from a brief stroll down the road. Taking a break from prolonged hours at the keyboard, walking not only benefits my healing hip but also nourishes my spirit.
Despite the unseasonably warm January weather in Wisconsin, the prevailing conditions have been overcast and foggy.
Although the daylight hours have been gradually lengthening, the sunshine has been elusive. However, in a belated yet welcome fashion, as I concluded my walk, the sun pierced through the veil of clouds.
Residing in a valley at the termination of a rural road, our daylight hours are inherently shortened by the encompassing hills. Casting my gaze skyward, I beheld the silhouetted barren trees and the mosaic of clouds illuminated by the descending sun.
The fragmented clouds bore a resemblance to a patchwork quilt, evoking memories of my late great-aunt Sara Clair. Throughout her lifetime, Aunt Sara meticulously crafted numerous quilts. Despite not having children of her own, she bestowed each great-great niece or nephew with a handmade quilt as a gesture of welcome into the world.
Aunt Sara also possessed a loom where she skillfully wove rag rugs using remnants of rags and fabric accumulated over the years. This artistry was passed down to her by my great-grandmother, who possessed a penchant for repurposing and recycling materials into new creations.
At times, I perceive my life akin to a quilt. Each day, we reconstruct facets of ourselves from the fragments of our encounters and the trials that each new day presents.
Some days, we feel complete, while on others, we feel like scattered pieces. Nonetheless, we endeavor to piece it all together as best we can, acknowledging that perfection in this patchwork is unattainable. What one may find beautiful, another may deem unattractive.
During Aunt Sara’s memorial service in 2004, the church pews were adorned with the myriad quilts brought by family members. Many bore signs of wear and tear from years of use. Yet, interwoven into every fiber of those quilts was the thread of love.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my vocation is the opportunity to engage with and assist individuals. I perceive economic development through a human-centric lens. While undeniably multifaceted, the prosperity, well-being, and vitality of our region are rooted not in infrastructure, progress metrics, or edifices, but in the people and the strength of our communal bond.
How may I be of assistance to you today?
In what way can I aid you in assembling your unique quilt of life?
How might we collaboratively weave a nurturing community characterized by compassion and affection?
Christopher Hardie dedicated over three decades to journalism as a reporter, editor, and publisher. His accolades include a Pulitzer Prize nomination and numerous state and national journalism awards. He served as the president of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. For inquiries, reach out to him at.