Christmas this year has a different meaning for me… I am sure many of you have been where I am now.
Most holidays have been filled with plans for decorating, making cookies, buying or making gifts. It has been a time of giving and celebrating.
But for some, this season is bittersweet. We remember the wonderful times with those we love. And are sad that they won’t be with us this year.
For some, this sense of loss can be overbearing. Hearing the endless loops of carols and shops full of ornaments just adds to the pain and sense of loss.
I know there are some who wonder how you could be sad with all this cheer around you. They don’t understand that right now, the lack of joy in your own life is such a sharp contrast. And all that cheer just makes things seem so much bleaker.
If you know what I mean, read on. If not, please give others some grace in their time of grieving.
Quilting Refuge
For those who understand what I am talking about, quilting can be your refuge. You aren’t necessarily quilting to see the joy on a recipient’s face. You are quilting to distract yourself from the holiday onslaught.
This may be the time to find some fabric. It could be something cheery or dreary or neutral or scraps of whatever is laying around. It doesn’t really matter. It is whatever speaks to you at this moment. Don’t worry about later. Find what you need now.
Then, pick your most comfortable pattern. That could be string piecing or half square triangles. It could be log cabins or pineapples. It could be fusible applique. You may like improvisation. Again, it doesn’t matter. Don’t over think it.
Then, just start cutting and sewing. It doesn’t matter how big or small the end project will be. Just dive in and start making blocks.
It is ok to lose yourself in the sewing at this point. Just focus on the stitching. Let it flow.
When you notice you are tired or hungry or stiff, stop. Take a nap. Get something to eat or drink. Take a short walk.
Do you notice that your head is clearer? You had a few minutes without your brain in overdrive? Your heart wasn’t aching so much? Did you have a few minutes of peace? If so, you are starting to feel the season. The other half of the cheer that we often forget – the PEACE.
Sometimes, we need to give ourselves a little GRACE. Give ourselves a little time to get out of our heads. To feel a little productive, a little useful, a little creative.
Don’t just do this once. Make it a habit. When that darkness starts – find your sewing. It is your therapy.
Pour your tears, fears, loss, anger, anxiety, loneliness, joy, happy memories, silly times, and laughter into your stitches,
Don’t stress over straight seams or perfect points. Life isn’t perfect. Life can be messy. This is part of giving yourself the gift of just being human. It isn’t something we are good at. We don’t want people to see us “falling apart.”
You aren’t falling apart. You are stitching your life together again. It won’t necessarily be pretty just yet. But it is progress.
You are not alone. Your sister (and brother) quilters are here with you.
Happy Quilting
P.S. To know more see Healing Through Quilting: The Therapeutic Power of Art – Nancy’s Notions or read Piecing for Cover | The New Yorker
