The Cardigan Sweater

Year 6-Day 39 :Today, I am grateful for the cardigan sweater. 

Fashion trends will come and go, but there is always a place for the humble cardigan sweater. They can change in shape and length, but the thing that makes them special is that we can put them on and take them off to help control our comfort as temperatures rise and fall.

I believe this is the first time I have remembered to be grateful for the cardigan sweater, although I wear one often in all four seasons. Even in summer, I would rather grab a cardigan than a jacket on a cool summer night. From heavy wool yarns for winter's deep freeze to lightweight cotton knits that find a place in our closet for all four seasons... a cardigan isn't just a fashion essential... it is practical. Purely practical. 

Our office can go from deep chill to tropical temperatures over the course of a work day. Boiler heat. It is what it is. Since there is not closet provided for a change of clothes mid-day. The cardigan is game changer. 

My favorites are long and lightweight cotton. They disguise,  breath and layer. What's not to love? 

This is love month... February. What spiritual quality is the most like my comfy, cozy, comfort controlling cardigan? 

Earworm is awake and feeling like a winner on the game show "Jeopardy" this morning. In "Jeopardy" answer form: "What is love?"  Yes! Love is like the a cardigan sweater. 

When we put on love, we can do much to change our comfort level in even the most challenging situations. When we choose love over any other emotion... our comfort level changes, even in difficult situations.  

Here is my verse of the day: “You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. -Matthew 5:43-45 

This post was written before I even looked at my verse of the day. Why am I still surprised when it works perfectly? I whisper a "thank-you" and take it as a heavenly affirmation. 

Here is the scripture that first came to mind.

Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. -1 Peter 4:8 

The simply, humble, shape changing cardigan... it fits. It works. Like love... it changes everything. 

Today, I am grateful for the cardigan sweater.