A Stitch of Courage

That belly flop, that adrenaline rush when you try something new—something that you think will be hard? We’ve all been there. Someone once told me a story that really makes this ring true, a story of fear overcome and triumph in a sewing studio.
She had for many years wished to be a tailor. This interest had led her to study Home Economics in high school, choosing Clothing and Textiles as her major. She had dreamed of practical lessons, the feel of fabric, the hum of a sewing machine. But to her growing disappointment, there were almost all theory classes and very few practical ones. Graduation loomed, and she was lost. Had it all been a waste of time? She asked herself if tailoring was simply too difficult, too time-consuming, or too costly—why on earth would her school omit the practical aspect? Memories of neighbors who had done years of apprenticeship only left her asking.
Discouraged and prepared to abandon her dream, she sought the advice of an older woman in her tribe. The older woman listened carefully, then replied with firm, commanding advice: “Try it hard. Find a good school and join.” Steeling herself with a deep breath, she took up the challenge, more encouraged by the elder’s faith in her than her own.
At the first trip to the apprentice school, the nerves returned. She was indignant she wouldn’t be able to do it, that the techniques would be too difficult. But something magical happened. Her instructors saw her potential as well as her fear. They offered gentle instruction, firm correction, and unlimited encouragement. Slowly, surely, something shifted. The difficult techniques once believed too hard to learn began falling into place. To her own amazement, she did it.
The learning process was swift. Within eight weeks, flowing skirts and intricate shirts that had been impossible for her were not only achievable but enjoyable. The mountain that had appeared so steep was a hill she could ascend. She was not merely capable; she was competent and confident after training.
Her proof? It took guts—guts first of trying despite her shyness, and guts of perseverance. Most of all, it took the help of other people—the neighbor who urged her to start, and the tutors who believed in her throughout. That shyness was a prelude to an amazing experience.
Today? She doesn’t sew; she builds dreams. Having established her own boutique and successful business with pride, she passes on the encouraging words she once received. She accepts new apprentices, guiding others as they pave their own paths to becoming great fashion designers, locally and abroad. The lifeline of encouragement that she once clutched herself now sews into other individuals’ dreams, unveiling the truth that courage, when sewn together with encouragement, is a wonderful thing indeed.