Monday, January 18

In honor of Rev. Martin Luther King

Today is an official holiday here in the U.S. It's a day to remember Rev. Martin Luther King and the significant changes he made in the civil rights movement in our country. I wanted to add a block to my "Grace and a Prayer" quilt in honor of this man, this day, so I made this block.........

Last night I lay in bed and thought of many designs I might create that would celebrate this man and his mission. I kept thinking of the peace symbol but it just wasn't working for me. Then I thought of the message he spoke of in many of his speeches and writings. I have a small book with some of his favorite quotes and then I googled his work for more ideas. The words above were often repeated. Inspiration hit!! I drew a quick sketch of what I wanted and then chose fabrics from my stash of patriotic prints. I cut three - 4 1/2" squares and then three - 8 1/2" rectangles to make the 12 1/2" block. I drew the shapes and letters, then traced them onto fabric backed with fusible web and ironed them to the block. I will sit down later tonight and blanket stitch around the letters and shapes. As I worked on the block this afternoon, I was watching "A Raisin in the Sun" starring Sidney Poitier. Then I turned to the news coverage of Haiti. I decided this block is done in memory of Rev. King and also in honor of all those in Haiti, many of whom have only "faith, hope and love" at this time. There is much being done to help but there is so much need. I am thinking about a little project that I might be able to do and can donate through a nearby church. There are so many people offering to help. It gives one hope for the future just to see that happening!
The next "Grace and a Prayer" blocks will be in February. I'll be back tomorrow and show you what has been keeping me so busy. :-)
Sandi

7 comments:

Pat said...

What a wonderful tribute that block is....for all the reasons you mentioned. Thanks for sharing it....AND your special words....with us!

Brooke said...

I absolutely love the thought and planning that went into this block. Thanks for sharing the story. It makes your lovely work even more special!

Owl Lady said...

Your block is a beautiful and fitting tribute.

Nihal said...

I know that he made the significant changes in the civil rights. How can I forget. So the day is not only a day to remember a dream, but also a day to become inspired, as you feel the same way, Sandi.
Appreciate that you share the story.

Happy Tuesday from a 50-50 snow-y very cold town. Ohh finally 'snow' cold arrives here, but not sure if snow falls:)

Lisa @ Life with 4! said...

That's wonderful, Sandi!!

Micki said...

I was in Washington with my dad for the "I have a dream"speech...It was incredible! What a lovely block! I admired King and JFK so much!
Micki

Christine said...

Great block!! Very appropriate for the day and his messages :) Christine

"Peace can be found in the piecing of a quilt."
©SEA 2001-2018