This week, Haima (left), a weaver from Tighedouine, arrived at The Anou headquarters in Fez to begin weaving my tapestry. The wool will be dyed and tested on a small trial loom before work begins on the full sized piece. I’m excited that we’ve reached this point!
I find myself checking my expectations. Not because I’m concerned with the quality of weaving – I have no doubt this will be a product of excellent quality. I wonder, instead, about my attempt to capture my thoughts, experiences, hopes and fears – my life distilled into an image. Have I done my story justice?
My life distilled – so far. I approach the end of a significant chapter as I wind down my career. But it hasn’t really been a chapter at all. For 45 years, work has been a constant line running through my tapestry. Work has been the cause of great stress and anxiety as well as a source of pride and identity.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about who I was as a child, before responsibilities took hold. I dreamed of being a hermit, living in the woods and writing poetry. I dreamed of simple and creative life. That I ended up living and working in downtown Toronto is a mysterious gift.
Who will I be without enforced expectation? I’m excited to see what happens as I shrug off that heavy burden. I love that my hopes and dreams only get stronger as I age – I want to find that sweet spot that combines a life of wisdom and abandon.
In the meantime, I look forward to more progress pictures from The Anou. Sending many thanks to Haima and she weaves my story across the loom.
Thank you for sharing this part of your journey. I will be following to see how the tapestry comes along at The Anou and as your life tapestry continues to be woven. How beautiful is the journey.
Thanks, Carla!