After the tornado wiped out our home and belongings, some of the volunteers that came to help brought me a prayer shawl. They had worked all day beside us and before the left they gave me the shawl saying that as they made it they prayed continually for the one who would receive the shawl. They put their arms around us and prayed for our recovery. It was very touching and every time I put it on their kindness still brings tears to my eyes.
I think this is a newer application of a very old tradition. For years people have used special places, clothes, and different things and ways to set aside time to remember and pray to their God. I know this shawl is very special because it reminds me that I have so much to be thankful for, including the many caring and kind people who helped in a thousand ways.