A touch of old Egypt
Every so often, I find myself humbled by the power of the little things. This week I had one of those moments. In preparation for an upcoming conference, I wanted to find items that specifically helped disadvantaged youth. I started searching high and low for possibilities, when a papyrus card came up. Really? I already have that card here in the shop. And to be frank, it’s just a card. How much impact could one little card possibly make? So I started digging, and found myself struck by the power of that little card. The card is made out of papyrus paper. You know, the paper made in Egypt some 5000 years ago? I’ve always loved things made out of papyrus. I think because it’s one of “those” artforms that defies logic to me. This paper is made from reeds that are crushed, pressed, and dried (to simplify things). When I look at the thickness and durability of reeds, I cannot imagine making them into paper. So anyway, the card is made out of papyrus, which makes it cool. But what’s super cool, is that the artwork is hand painted by unemployed youth in Mallawi, Egypt. Young adults earn income, while advancing their artistic skills. I never dreamed these cards were so incredibly special. And now that I know…there are several more designs on the way.
