Make happy - any time of year

A repost of "Make happy"

Readers - Last December I shared this story on the joys found in making gifts during the holidays. But the wonderful thing about making for others is that it brings all that feel-good holiday energy no matter when you do it. So I’m making a few things now, just because. Please have a read and then consider making something special for the wonderful people in your lives. Just because. They’ll love it, I have no doubt. ~JRC

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Make happy

I've said it before, but creating is the best medicine

First published Dec 20, 2021

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Since early fall, I've been in a slump. It's a combination of things - uncertainty about COVID; worry for friends and family. And all the other unknowns that these unprecedented times bring.

You know - stuff that concerns us all.

Indeed times are different - and difficult. It seems we mark the changing seasons with loss and absence rather than bountiful celebration. It doesn't feel like a time for heralding in the season. And my mood has suffered.

But early last week, I took a step back and remembered what I already knew - if I wanted to feel better, I needed to make something. So I created a pact with myself and enlisted you to keep me honest.

I was going to make and I told you I would do it.

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Now, let me pause to clarify. It might seem odd for someone who claims to be a maker not to make. But there are often many days, even weeks, where I am focused on less hands-on things. My writing, for example. And there is also a lot of contract planning that does not involve making anything tangible. Anyway, these "other" things can often get in the way of manual creativity. And if I let it go on for too long, well, I can get in a rut of not making a thing.

Even last week, after proclaiming I would make something, I was tempted to focus on other things. But I told you I would, and so I did. If only to save face.

Boy, am I glad I did.

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In all honesty, I didn't completely follow through. I said I would weld up a cart for a couple of tools. And I started by getting the steel I needed for the project. But as I cleaned and prepped my workspace for the work ahead, I shifted gears and made some Christmas gifts instead.

I had meant to make the gifts all along, but my slump got in the way. Christmas was fast approaching, and I would miss the mailing deadlines if I didn't buckle down now. So I rolled up my sleeves and got to work.

Let me tell you; it was a relief. I immediately brightened up as I began to make. And getting into the creative flow happened more quickly than I expected. The hours flew by, and I had some creations that I was proud to say I made by the end of it. They're off to parts far and wide now, hopefully arriving in time for Christmas.

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I'm sure those who'll receive them will be thankful. It's the thought that counts, and taking the time to hand-make stuff is always appreciated. But I remind myself I am equally the benefactor in all this. Making things makes things better for the maker.

Yes, taking the time to make things for others is a real blessing. Perhaps one of the greatest gifts I could ask for at this time. So thanks for keeping me honest. And thanks for giving me a reason to make.

JRC