I entered into the world of 'Scrapbooking'. I know, I know, this world has been around for many years now and I am probably one of the last to enter through its doors. I have been busy doing other things in the last 20 years so only now did things fall into place for me to walk through the inviting door of taking photos which have deep sentimental value to the owner and learning creative ways of displaying them for others to behold.
It definitely is a different sort of world, for everyone there had their own 'scrapbooking tools and items'. People sat at tables and were lost in the world of photos, craft paper, glue and cutting devices. It was not really a time for socializing, although Sharon has a tremendous gift of being able to socialize anywhere she goes with just about anyone, which is a sight to watch just on its own. Yet other sights captured my attention too for there were people sitting at the different tables with volumes of uniquely designed papers spread out covering every inch of the surface allotted to each person.
There were aspects of this new world that I had not considered, which brought some challenges for me, which is okay because challenges are to be overcome, somehow--someway. The first challenge was the fact that some of the letters were so small which was hard to manage so I found other devices to assist me, like the lid of a pen to help get things lifted so I could grab them. Then there was the issue of cutting the craft paper. I have come to realize in my journey of life that having only one good eye has a few disadvantages--one being that no matter how hard I try to cut things straight it NEVER happens--not even with the cutting machine aiding me. In the end I decided to go with the slightly crooked pages as that is simply who I am--one who cuts on a slight angle--it is what it is :-)
There were other aspects of this new world that I had not considered either, like how much intense joy and satisfaction it brought to my heart, spirit, soul and mind to complete one page and then enter it into the album I got today. To watch this from the beginning to end, no one would ever guess how deeply the activity would affect the one doing it. Creativity was being expressed, respect and honour was being displayed to the objects and people in the photos, remembering was brought to the surface and the end result was intense joy and deep satisfaction. I suspect that these same emotions were being experienced by all the other people sitting around the tables which is why they have joined the scrapbooking world.
I think I am hooked on the value and benefit of scrapbooking--who would have ever thought!!!
Now, I realize that my pages may not look as professional or as expressive as others in the room or in the Scrapbooking world, but it is okay, for my creative juices are just beginning to flow and as I learn more each album will develop into improved masterpieces. But for me it is not so much about the quality of the end product, even though I desire a good end product--for me it is more about the process. The process involves choices, something I am learning more and more about in this season in my life, of healing and joy. The process also involves displaying something of ones self for others to see. Again a new thing that I am learning more about. The process also involves being content with the end product, not judging it, or being critical, it involves looking at the positive qualities of the page or the album, knowing that there is room for improvement while also acknowledging that even doing one page is a huge step to living life.
So, I must announce that I am glad I walked through the Scrapbooking door even if it was 20 years later than many others. Now was my time and it was a time of enjoyment and creativity. When will I re-enter through that door into that world? Good question, for at this time my Hebrew text and New Testament texts are screaming at me day and night, so I suspect it will be a while before I venture through that door again, but rest assured I will re-enter when the time is right for it was a very peaceful and joyful event for me.
