In these days that seem to blend together in our state’s, “Safe At Home”, order I have become a mask-maker.
What began and a simple necessity to make masks for family and a few friends has become a mini manufacturing piece of my life. My living room now has an ironing board and cutting/sewing table in its décor.
It really started simply, with the supplies I have at home as a person who enjoys sewing and quilting. I, like many sewers, have a lovely collection of beautiful color and prints of fabric. I had elastic and all the necessities to begin the sewing of a few masks. This led me to search for the “perfect” pattern to use for masks. At least six patterns and literally hundreds of patterns and trials later, I have found my favorite two patterns. I have read and researched for hours, discussed in chat rooms and even a Zoom meeting the project of mask making that seems to have not end.
I love the fabric and textiles, each one a favorite in some category. Some the remnants from a beloved project of the past bring reflection and smiles.
I did not plan for this to consume so much of my time, but I have yet not found the place in time to end. There always seems at the end of a batch of mask creations, a new need arises.
People ask what they cost? That is an interesting question. They cost me time I might do other projects, time I may read or simply sit. They cost me pin pricks and a few cuts from scissors, a sore back and tired eyes. I am fortunate to be in a place at this time where I can supply my materials and they are gifts. Gifts with a request, a request for prayer or a kindness to another person that the recipient may pass along. They are priceless to me.
I sew because I can. I sew because I am a nurse and I know the public health benefit. I know the reality that there are not yet enough masks for our world. I sew because I know how much a simple gift, smile, act of generosity can be for another person. These days we need this more that ever before in life.
In a time when many of us are struggling, this mask-making craziness give me hope. I have hope that we can love and care for others in the simplest and profound ways. I have hope that my small act may be just the kindness and care another may need the day they are gifted a mask.
Believe n love,
Geralyn
Geralyn Nathe-Evans has been called to the vocations of wife, mom, Lay Ecclesial Minister, nurse and friend.