Sashiko Stitching Reboot
A new year often signifies new beginnings and change — talks of resolutions, better habits, better diets. I recently attended a webinar where we were working on manifestations for our new year, but before we began we reflected on the previous year.
We were encouraged to think about what made us happiest, what we were most proud of, and what lessons we learned. When I learned that my cancer journey was not over last February, it was debilitating. I felt paralyzed in a body that was not keeping up with my mind, my soul, my dreams.
As I pulled out my unfinished sashiko stitching project that I had stashed in a closet the previous year, I realized that I had been stashing parts of me away, as well. I have been scared so many times to try something new, to let myself be completely me, to fit a mold that was not right for me.
My cancer diagnosis forced me to slow down, step back, and give myself permission to be my most authentic self. It forced me to question why I was holding back — nothing is perfect, life can be messy, it can be uneven, but it can also be so beautiful and transformative.
While the photo above is a little goofy — I think it captures the pure joy I felt when I finished the sashiko pillow project. In that moment, I was so proud of what I had created.
I no longer held back out of disappointment for my uneven lines, or embarrassment of the dog hair that had been stitched in, or the fear of using a new machine to finish the project.
I have faced so many challenges in the last two years—I have had to fight through surgeries, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation treatments. These challenges have taught me to reflect on what I am most proud of and have forced me to accept myself for who I am, dog hair and all!
Sadly, my local craft store Fancy Tiger closed late last year, however if you are looking for some sashiko craft projects, check out Snuggly Monkey.