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Writer's pictureJane Willan

ADVICE FROM SISTER AGATHA





Hello there, gentle reader! I have some exciting news. I've decided to start my very own Advice Column! I know some of you might question my qualifications, but I've been around the block a time or two and picked up a thing or three about life's quirks and conundrums. My friends were a bit skeptical at first, but they have faith in my abilities.

I'm inviting you, my lovely readers, to write in with your own letters seeking my guidance. Just leave your questions in the comments section, and I'll be happy to offer my perspective.


Whether you're dealing with matters of the heart, navigating a tricky situation at work, or just need a fresh take on life's challenges, Sister Agatha is here to help. Let's make this Advice Column a journey filled with wisdom and a bit of laughter!



"Simple, I thought. Straightforward, I assumed. Oh, how naive I was."


Dear Sister Agatha,

 

I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits, surrounded by your lovely sisters and, no doubt, an air of divine tranquility interrupted only by the occasional clucking of chickens. I find myself in quite the pickle, and not the delightful kind one might find enhancing a ploughman's lunch. You see, I’ve recently taken up knitting as a hobby—yes, knitting!—much to the amusement of my friends and the perpetual confusion of my two left thumbs.

 

My ambition, perhaps spurred by the ghost of a long-departed grandmother who was quite the needle wizard, soared as high as a cathedral spire. I aimed to knit a scarf. Simple, I thought. Straightforward, I assumed. Oh, how naive I was. Here lies my conundrum: my scarf, intended to be a singular, elegant accessory, has somehow morphed into what could only be described as a woolen labyrinth. Each attempt to untangle the mess has led to more knots and confusion.

 

It’s gotten so that even my cat, Mr. Whiskerson, has given up on it as a plaything, regarding it with a disdain usually reserved for his vet. Sister Agatha, in your infinite wisdom, could you advise me on how to either salvage this knotted disaster or should I start anew? And if the latter, any tips for a bumbling novice to avoid repeating this tangled fiasco?

 

Yours Sincerely,

Desperate and Tangled in Cardiff




Dear Desperate,

Greetings and blessings from Gwenafwy Abbey, where the chickens cluck their hellos and even the sheep seem to sympathize with your knotty predicament! Your letter has brightened our day and given us a fine chuckle over our morning tea. Fear not, for you have come to the right place, and I am more than happy to shepherd you through this woolen wilderness.

 

Firstly, let me commend you on your brave foray into the world of knitting—a craft that, I assure you, can sometimes baffle even the most dexterous among us here at the Abbey. Sister Winifred, our resident knitting sage, often says that every knitter is merely an unraveller in waiting. So, take heart!

 

As to your labyrinthine scarf, it sounds like you’ve knitted quite the riddle. While there’s always merit in working through a tangle (much like the mysteries we encounter in our daily lives), there comes a time when starting afresh is the more peaceful path. Here’s what you might do:

 

Take a Deep Breath: All great endeavors begin with a calm mind. Perhaps a spot of tea might help as you prepare to tackle the yarn beast. Now assess the tangle. Sometimes, if the mess isn’t too severe, a little patience and a lot of gentle pulling might set things right. A knitting needle or crochet hook can be your best friend in teasing out the knots. You could also consider the chop. If the tangle defies all attempts at salvation, cutting a knot or two might be necessary. It’s not defeat; it’s strategic retreat.

 

Remember, every stitch, like every step in life, is a chance to create something beautiful and new. Embrace the tangles as part of the journey, for it is often our snarls that teach us the most about patience and perseverance.

 

Knit on, brave soul! And do keep us posted on your progress. Mr. Whiskerson is welcome to write in as well.

 

Yours in both faith and yarn,

Sister Agatha

 


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6 Comments


spikemom2003
May 08

Dear Sister Agatha,

I am an avid reader going through a book a day sometimes, usually at least every other day. The murder mystery genre is my favorite and recently my taste has turned a bit darker to even serial killer thrillers. My beloved husband says it is very "unseemly" for a Christian lady to be reading such things. I say, "How will I know what to look out for if I don't educate myself?" I was wondering what are your thoughts on the matter dear Sister, as I know you've been known to stumble upon a crime scene or two yourself.

Sincerely,

Murder Mystery Mrs.

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Jane Willan
Jane Willan
May 10
Replying to

 Mrs. Murder, I have answered your letter in today's post! blessings, Sister Agatha

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cozycup
May 08

Dear Sister Agatha, please offer some guidance in how to navigate my devastated broken heart, as I had to put my soul dog to eternal rest. I’m currently lost without her. I pray & hope we meet again, but I can feel past the pain right now.


Heartbroken,

Shae’s mama

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Jane Willan
Jane Willan
May 10
Replying to

dear heartbroken, I have answered your letter in today's post. blessings, Sister Agatha

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dcstargazer2517
May 08

Brilliant advice. Patience is one of your virtues Sister.

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