From Bernice to Juni… with love

Knitting needles in the hands of Bernice Cargo. Mary’s Grandmother was a master. And last night, in our kitchen, Bernice’s legacy was on display.

Juni, our 18-month-old granddaughter was a willing dress-up doll for Mary as she pulled an aged wardrobe back into public view.  When Juni was clad in a meticulously constructed blue sweater and hat that was a few sizes too large… we all realized that a chasm of time had been crossed in an instant.

Bernice Cargo, six decades earlier had brilliantly stewarded her needles and yarn. A classic design with nearly flawless execution. A row at a time, indeed, a stitch at a time. Utility and beauty. Function and form. It was Mary’s sister, Liz, who first wore the gift of love. But, last night, it was Juni.

Juni, a great-great granddaughter unknown to Bernice. Her effort of faithfulness and excellence impacted a generation removed from her. A generation unknown, but blessed. Through the work of her hands. Through the gift of her diligence. Through her commitment to excellence.

Each stitch a gift. Each knot a lasting blessing.

Legacy. The work of our hands bringing delight and warmth and beauty to generations that follow. Generations that know nothing about the knitter, but who experience the effect of the sweater.

Legacy. The work of our hands bringing delight and warmth and beauty to generations that follow. Generations that know nothing of me… but who will experience my commitment to excellence and honor firsthand. This is my challenge. A noble calling.

Juni will never have a picture of Bernice on her wall, but she will have a sweater in her closet… a sweater that will not only warm her… but her daughter and granddaughter as well.

Legacy.

A reputation that generations will wear.

From Bernice to Juni… with love.