Embracing Life
Tapestry of Life
Imagine for a moment how the threads of your life might look if displayed in a continuous loom illustrating your life from birth to present. Each of our woven stories is as unique and individual as our fingerprints. Recently, a character in a fictional book inspired me to analyze what the cherubs might see if they looked down at my tapestry.
A series of four books written by Stephenie Meyer, known as The Twilight Saga, captivated the students and staff at the school where I work. It was difficult for me to understand why people of all ages were mesmerized by a tale of magical mythological characters. When co-workers began to re-read the novels, my curiosity peaked, and I joined the frenzy.I immediately bonded with Bella, Meyer's main character. Bella is a clumsy high school student from a dysfunctional family who considers herself plain. Her goal is to quietly blend in and merely survive. However, Bella befriends werewolves and vampires. They are instrumental in changing her life, helping Bella realize her strengths and relinquish her weaknesses. Sometimes even strange fiction parallels reality.
Like Bella, as a youth, I wanted to be invisible. Remarkably, my shyness did not scare away individuals sent to my rescue. Throughout the years, many unusual characters have given me strength, and I proudly call them my friends.
Bella describes her teenage tapestry as, "... a nice beige, something supportive and non-confrontational, something that would look good in the background."
Bella's story helped me visualize my own tapestry trail. What I envision is a two-sided quilted rug, stitched together with threads of healing and experience. A collage of patchwork squares, each representing significant eras in my life, are on the exposed side of the quilt. The oldest pieces are faded and frail, made with the same bland fibers used in Bella's rug.
Orange diamond-shaped patches dominate my 20's decade. Ironically, my first car was a bright carroty-colored Duster. Displayed under dazzling lights in the showroom, this automobile demanded attention. I have absolutely no idea how the salesperson sold me this vehicle. Its personality was completely different from mine. Reflecting back, purchasing that flamboyant car was my first step in building self-confidence. The flashy paint job sparked my energy fuse and provided fuel for personal growth.
Pink and blue cover much of my blanket for many miles. I am blessed with being the mother of a son and daughter born 15 months apart. They provided me with immeasurable love. I learned how to cuddle, coo and laugh -- tender moments missed from my own childhood.
Ruby red hearts appear next, happily dancing on my tapestry. They represent the many years I spent mentoring youth. During that era, I discovered how to give unconditionally and how to receive unexpected gifts in return.
Huge holes and gaps randomly emerge throughout my quilt during times of physical and mental pain. A surprising bright light shines through those deep cavities. The warmth of God's grace and love is astonishingly prevalent.
Brilliant hues of all colors surround the rips and tears, appearing as strong bolts of lightning, ready to act. They are symbols of angels sent as friends ready to provide comfort.
Bella said, "... I imagined the design on the backside would be woven in the bleak grays of doubt and fear."
All of us mask a hidden side, as does my fictional friend. On the bottom of my quilt, are old scraps of apprehension, dismay and family secrets. Stepped on and squashed for many years, the tattered cushion remains resilient.
As long as we live, the loom continues to weave. The ropes of my tapestry currently under construction show hints of emerald and plum. Those dyes reflect positive attributes attained with age. As I grow in spiritual awareness, I am more satisfied and grounded with my purpose on the planet. Last year I redecorated a portion of my home -- in purple and green. Was that a coincidence? Perhaps, or maybe just as when I purchased my orange Duster many years ago, I am beginning to embrace a new stage of my journey on Earth. §
Donna Bonnell is a freelance writer who moved to Newberry in 1983. She enjoys living and working in the town she now calls home. Donna@towerpublications.com
