When I was young, my favorite stuffed animal was “Lambie”. My Lambie was white with natural cotton fur and a little bow around its neck. I adored Lambie. I carried it around everywhere I went. I am sad to report that I loved it so much that eventually its little head separated from its body. But, of course, my mom repaired it. That is what love is about.
The connection a child makes with a stuffed animal is a daily practice in compassion. In empathy. In caring for something outside of oneself.
This Cutie the Lamb reminds me of my own Lambie. It’s made by hand with love. In this case, the creators are a fair trade organization based in Peru. The workers are paid living wages so they can afford to feed their families. Does this mean that Cutie costs a little more than sweat shop creations? Absolutely, and that’s the point! This is a model that we should ALL be following. Treat craftspeople with respect. Honor their efforts. Adore the things they make for us.
Cutie the Lamb has a pink body and rose-colored arms and legs. Cutie has a sewn-on neck ribbon and yellow ears. It’s a delightful companion for any child.
And I would go further than that. I think adults could use to have some cuteness and joy in their own lives. Is there something about being an adult that says we can no longer feel joy at seeing something cute? Maybe sit it on a shelf or in with plants or books? We all need something to remind us every once in a while that life is to be enjoyed. To be cherished.
Image of product used in fair use to promote that product.