This rug….
This rug is from Pakistan and I bought it at an amazing store called Old World Rugs in San Luis Obispo, Ca. If you aren’t familiar with how these rugs are made here is a short video demonstration if you’re curious.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ECqbfX0IUA&t=18s
The reason this rug holds so dear to me is because it metaphorically represents more about my life than anything else I have ever purchased. Here’s why.
Life is made up of a series of decisions. Each decision, even if it doesn’t contain the desired outcome, embodies the whole of our existence. In this instance, the rug being handmade, means that each knot of wool is intentionally placed. For me the knots represent our day-to-day decisions. Though you may not know the consequences of each decision, they serve a purpose. The knots are a reminder to make each decision intentional, and think about how I can effectively tie enough knots together to create something beautiful.
Time is our greatest enemy, there is not enough of it, there never will be. That being said, everything takes considerably more time than you could imagine. This rug represents the saying “Good things come to those who wait” or as I’d like to add “Good things come to those who are patient and persistent.” This rug serves as a reminder to focus on my knots, and limit my distractions.
These rugs are so meticulously crafted that they maintain their integrity for hundreds of years. That means that though the people who brought this rug into existence may not be around anymore, they live vicariously through their work. This aspect of the rug reminds me to be selfless in my intentions, and to perform work that benefits the world, not just my selfish ambitions.
As I reflect on my life so far, I’m at the beginning of the rug making process, still trying to refine my knots. I see the light at the end of the tunnel, but there are still many knots to get there.
Thank you to everyone who’s made this year special.
With love,
Kai
Weekly Poem:
When life gives you lemons
Make lemonade ~ Elbert Hubbard
