It is exciting to have sold seven quilts in the last two months. One flew to California. Two others were bought by a woman who gifted one of them. Another quilt with bright colors was chosen by a friend for her granddaughter. Three were adopted at a neighborhood sale which was friendly. 

 

Each time I mailed them I double checked the address, and insured it. There was an option for delivery confirmation. The promise of knowing it had arrived safely was appealing, and not expensive. Tracking also made it easy to follow each journey in progress, which I did. 

 

The website assured me that the one out of state had arrived at the post office. I texted my friend to let her know. She said she had gone to check but the post lady did not give it to her. Was I sure? I sent a link and she drove back again. Happily the package was indeed there and she brought the quilt home to its rightful place. 

 

John Gottman has a name for such confirmations in relationships. He calls it answering a bid. When the person you love makes a subtle request for connection, it takes attention to respond. Maybe it is a sigh across the room. Perhaps it is a succinct comment. 

 

"That was a hard call."

 

"Tell me about it."

 

These are often an invitation to come closer. To be curious. If we are self absorbed we might miss it. 

 

It is worthwhile to let the person who is opening their heart to you know that their words have landed, and are being held for safe keeping.