Over the years, I have had contact with many people all over the world through my interests in needlework, my interaction in needlework-focused online groups, and through my business.
People come and go. Some hang around for a very long time, and I’m so very grateful. Some move on to other interests. Sometimes I hear that someone is no longer with us. I think particularly of Paula in Brazil, who always used to keenly anticipate my next book – whatever it was! She was always so encouraging, and so amusing the way she’d talk about me being such a tease in the way I slowly release information about what’s coming. She was a respected teacher of embroidery in Brazil. It was so sad to learn that Paula had died, and even years later, I’m still mourning her loss.
Yesterday I learned that Cheryl, who always ordered a good number of books for her shop whenever I had a new one, died last September. She was a kind, generous person, who was also always so encouraging to me. I sent her an email last week to let her know that the new book was getting near. It surprised me that I hadn’t had an enthusiastic email back from her, so I investigated. I was so sad to hear that after a short health battle, she had died late last year.
For me, this isn’t just a business. It is so much more. It is about sharing knowledge, sharing a passion, and also, sometimes I have the privilege of sharing in other people’s lives. If you’ve been around here for a short time or a long time, please know that I appreciate you, and I’m glad you’re here. You touch my life, and sometimes that makes a real difference to me. Thank you.
Right back atcha! It’s always interesting to read what you write and hear what you share, even back to the time you spent in Africa. How time has flown…
Thanks Rachel!