Quilting teaches me.... Why

A question rather than a virtue. But being able to understand why we do something is sort of like having a virtue. Right?

Whatever. It's got to be a good thing in some mind or manner. So we'll go with that. Which brings me to the question of why? Why do we do some things and not others? Why do I go into the studio alone, sometimes without purpose or reason? Why do I sew at all? And make quilts, of all things, in the Louisiana summer. Why even quilt? Yes, that why.

If you're reading this post, you probably already know many of my answers: 

•  the opportunity to create, to make, something useful is part of who I am. I have to be a maker. I just happen to be a quilter. I've tried other ways of creating but always return to quilting. 
• the soothing comfort and love of a quilt speaks to my soul. If you want to make something for someone, a quilt will do every time. 
• the opportunity to make quilts and other items for my family seem to be endless. I may "complain" about having too many small, "do this for me, please" projects, but the honest truth is I appreciate and love them. Sewing is a way to show that love.
• the colors, textures, even the smells of fabric are tangible. I know them and their familiarity keeps me centered. 
• I want to quilt. 

That last one. That's the real reason I quilt. I just want to. Even when I'm having a bad day and can't seem to turn the machine on, no matter the reason. I still want to quilt. 

I still want to create and make. I still want to see, touch, smell fabric. I want to share my passion with others. I want to feed my soul. I want to quilt. 

Quilting teaches me...

Perseverance

Charity

Simplicity

Patience

Why

Authenticity

Courage

Contentment