The four layers of this square tell much of my life's journey. The top most, smallest symbol is a blue “love” in sign language. When the hand is held upright with the thumb pointing inward toward the chest, this sign says, “I Love You.” I love all the women who have selflessly performed a “loving act of kindness” by participating in the various studies of the WHI. This sign also stands for the love I have given and have received in my own family and my Chicago public school family where I taught Hearing Impaired children for most of my thirty-five year career. It is done in my most favorite, comforting color - cobalt blue. The second layer is a red flower. It represents my love of nature and the garden I tend. The third layer is a Star of David composed of children of many backgrounds. It represents the Judaic heritage that has guided me and helped me guide my own children and my students to be their best. The fourth layer represents all of humankind who are as leaves, intertwined on the branches of the tree of life.
I am proud to be a woman among the many who have made the effort to participate in the Women's Health Initiative. I am grateful to all the volunteers and professionals who are running the project. This quilt is a wonderful way to express my feelings.
Thank you all!
Truly,
NB
Chicago, IL