As I am sorting material to put out to make masks and gowns, I think about where the fabric has come from.  What is the story behind it? Was it stored for years after cleaning out Moms closets? Was it in a collection to make that perfect quilt but never got finished….or started? Was the fabric found in storage when we were cleaning closets during Shelter in Place?   Or was it just eye candy on a shelf and now sacrificed for a greater cause. Who made the fabric, where was the cotton grown and who picked the cotton? Who designed the patterns in the fabric? Did they ever imagine seeing its use now? 

What is the story behind the person who took that fabric to make a mask or gown? I can’t help but wonder about each person who puts a needle and thread in, stitching in a story of his or her moment in this time…. Weaving their quiet thoughts and a small piece of their life into the fabric. Some are first time sewers, some are cancer survivors, and some are fighting cancer or other health issues themselves. Some find sewing as a therapy, an outlet, or  to meet a challenge and gain purpose.  Some stitch to take them into distraction and some…just for private reasons are drawn to contributing and giving back, to be kind. 

And whose face will each mask cover and what is their story now and what will it become?   Is it the face of a visitor or worker at a hospital? Does it cover a well worn, over used PPE? Will the eyes above the mask show the smile hidden behind it, or tears of frustration?  Is it worn out of fear of catching a disease, or out of love to protect others?   Will it be successful in its purpose? Is it a survivor, or a future survivor? Will your children, or grand children someday find this souvenir of history, in Moms closet?