Here is the next of the beautiful, inspiring, special contributions coming in to the #MandalasForMarinke remembrance project. I am grateful for each and every amazing contribution. You are invited to join; learn more here.
Beautiful Crochet Mandala
Crafter Sharon says:
“I crocheted this mandala – one of Wink’s patterns – because it reminds me of a sun, a sun that is now shining down on Wink forever.”
The crochet pattern is Wink’s Tuts+ mandala tutorial.
Meet the Maker
Sharon in Toronto shares:
“So saddened to hear about the suicide of Wink.
I did not know her personally, but was touched by her story because of my own issues of chronic depression.
My mother taught me to crochet when I was a young girl and I recently took it up again. It definitely helps calm and soothe.
I have admired many of Wink’s crochet projects. She was such a beautiful and talented soul.
My deepest condolences to her family.”
Connect with Sharon as Lawriefan on Pinterest and @myCatVicki on Twitter.
Words by Wink
Fun fact: Wink’s birthday (May 5th) was also her father’s birthday.
Wink, being the generous girl she was, often celebrated her birthday on her blog with discounts and giveaways for her readers. I think this speaks to the kind of person she was and reminds us about her generosity and zest for celebrating others.
About Depression
One purpose of this project is to raise awareness about depression so each post will end with some facts, thoughts or quotes about depression, suicide and/or mental health. Today I wanted to share the touching story of a 63-year-old woman who almost committed suicide but was saved by her dog. As she fired a shot at herself, the dog leaped on the gun and stopped her from dying. I don’t know how her life has fared since that time, but the pup gave her a second chance, not just by stopping the bullet but by showing her something amazing in her life.
I’ve been volunteering with Golden Retriever Lucy all year doing emotional assisted therapy for all different types and ages of people. It’s amazing to see what joy and life she brings into the room just by being there, being cuddly, being her. She’s very sensitive. She knows just who to go up to and she knows whether she should approach that person quietly or with exuberance. It’s magical to watch. If you’re in the kind of depression where you can’t even take care of yourself then it might be too much to also care for a pet but if you are in a place where you could benefit from motivation and cuddles then a pet can be the perfect answer.
Therese Borchard of PsychCentral says pets relieve depression in a number of ways including being soothing, providing unconditional love and acceptance, altering our behavior, making us more responsible, distracting us and encouraging touch. And I’d add that they just make you laugh sometimes. Dogs, in particular, can be goofy and silly and I find myself chuckling at them often even when I am in a down mood.
All contributions to Mandalas for Marinke are welcome and will help raise awareness about depression while honoring her work in the same way that this great contribution has done today. Details to join here.
Hi Kathryn – I came across your site yesterday and as I live in Australia I had two Mandalas already to go and I just wanted to send something to make this a very inspiring project for all that crochet and all that do suffer from Depression. I have had two friends commit suicide and one of the Mandalas was made on her property whilst we were visiting – I hope that they get there in time. What a wonderful girl you are to give this back to her family and friends. I am sure that her family will cherish all that you are doing.
They’ll definitely be a part of the project when they arrive. Thanks so much for your participation … and I am so sorry for your loss. <3