Hi readers! If you are unfamiliar, a “This I Believe” essay, which has been promoted by NPR and This I Believe.org, is an essay where someone writes about what they fundamentally believe, or a concept they hold close to them. Here’s the one that I wrote, I hope you enjoy!
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I believe in the power of a cozy sweater. Throughout life, there are frigid gusts of wind, furious blizzards, crisp falls, and chilly springs. We’ve all been cold to the bone and needed an extra layer, which is easily provided by a sweater.
Sweaters come in all styles, shapes, and sizes. They range in color from the brightest yellow to the dullest gray, and from the most elaborate design to the simplest pattern. They can be button-up, pullover, cardigans, or ponchos. Some are made from wool, while others are made from cotton or acrylic. Sweaters can come from a designer fashion outlet, a convenience store, or from your grandma’s yarn. Even though sweaters are diverse, they all serve us well and are comfortable in the coldest of weather.
Sweaters not only serve to protect us from the cold, but are there to cuddle up in during a football game with friends, to dry our eyes after the loss of a pet or family member, to wear to a holiday party filled with loved ones, or to sleep in when pulling an all-nighter; however, the sweater eventually becomes worn with memories, slowly unraveling or fraying, but never complaining. A sweater is always there to provide comfort until the end when it’s too stretched, shrunken, or frayed from its journey on your shoulders to be wearable again.
Sometimes, I think the earth would be a better place if there were more sweaters. In a world filled with hate, it can be challenging to see the happiness and joy in the best and most obscure parts of life. Too often people do not receive any support, or don’t realize that they have it. If the world had more sweaters and people willing to spread comfort, the world would be better. If more people appreciated the small moments and memories that life offers, the cold and bitter times wouldn’t be as miserable. It’s hard to remember that joy can’t exist without sorrow; however, during sorrow, you can wrap yourself in the sweater of memories and happiness in the past, and the prospects of the future.
Sweaters, overall, are easily overlooked. Although they may seem trivial or easily replaced, not much can compete with the comfort a good sweater can provide. Whether your sweater is knit or woven, blue or red, elaborate or basic, button-up or pullover, a sweater is essential for one’s comfort and warmth through the winter of life.
– SBR
Good Vibes 