No it's not a zen thing. It is what happens when you are right handed and have your right arm in a block and tackle for six weeks. What craft projects are practical with one arm? Basically, knitting. No wrist strength for jewelry; no lifting for wood working; no expansive gestures for cooking; no extensive reading or eye strain. Thank goodness yarn and needles are light and I tension the yarn in my left hand.
The underlying issue - - I have to be "working". Is this unique? People lay about at the pool and beach, watch soap operas and sports, complete crosswords. 'Can't just sit and chat, I have to be physically occupied with a three dimensional object. A few months ago I retired after 30 years with an employer. Why can't I just sit back and enjoy my leisure, particularly with my arm in a sling? No Puritan I, what bizarre perversion of the Puritan work ethic is at play here?
Art and crafts were always my refuge. Occupied in design and construction, my mind could wander worry free. It has always been that the activity of my hands drained the anxiety from my mind. With few things to worry about I should be able to relax but instead I design future projects and for the present sit and knit...
