INDIA Hard Parts Brought to Light (3rd of 3 posts)

The women who made the story ropes in India were 'workers'. The group was very blessed to have the opportunity to process their own stories through the story rope. There were hard parts in their stories - experiences of violation and loss that were brought to light. After sharing the significance of each ribbon, there was a deeper sense of community among the women - they knew each others' now. Ahead they will use this fabric art form as they care for many women in India. 
See all 3 India posts.

Thankyou, Marcia for your India story!
Click for Marcia's Creative Call blog post about story ropes in India

INDIA Women Secretly Eager to Share (2nd of 3)

I think India must be a hard place to live, even to visit. I did not see it first hand, my friend Marcia did. But I do follow daily reports of the International Justice Mission, securing justice for victims of slavery, sexual exploitation and other forms of violent oppression. I've noted that so many of their rescues take place in India. 

India is a shame-honor culture - a hostile environment for many of the nation's women and children. Girl babies are aborted at a much higher rate than boys-so girl infanticide is a huge issue. In the news we hear that rape is always blamed on the victim with violent consequences. Domestic violence is common.

It is no wonder Indian women will not talk about their problems.  Secretly they are eager to share their hearts.  Story ropes disarm and make way for gentle, loving and supportive conversation - centered on hope because they are an important part of God's story. 

INDIA Marcia Arrives Prepared to Teach Story Ropes (1st of 3)

My friend, Marcia, was in India for a few weeks in August. 

She arrived prepared to teach workers how to create and use story ropes with women. 

I asked Marcia what are some issues women face in that culture.  A few thoughts: 

Unless they are in a high cast, women are valued much less than men • Women suffer beatings by their husbands •  It is thought that maybe in the next life, a woman will come back as a man, rather than a woman.

Seems like there would be a lot of stories for the rope in India.............more ahead.......