The Belonging Project: Weaving Joy and Connection in a World of Possibilities
Introduction
Welcome to a heartwarming tale of transformation and belonging! Today, we're diving into the extraordinary journey of The Belonging Project, where fabric on a fence holds the power to heal and unite. This isn't just any old weaving project to me; it's an adventure of self-discovery, resilience, and the profound joy of finding one's true home base. So grab your cup of creativity, and let's unravel the magical threads of this heroic tale!
Logs of Dreams and Playful Beginnings
Once upon a time, there were logs meant for a playground that found an unexpected home in my backyard. What seemed like a forgotten project quickly became the foundation for something out of the ordinary. From the very start, the Belonging Project was about daring to dream and taking action. With the help of my youngest child and his friends, we collected the logs with a knowing that they were destined for play.
Weaving Magic: A Dance of Individuality and Unity
With the logs sitting unused in the backyard, I began experimenting with free weaving: creating fabric without rules. It was a therapeutic dance, liberating me as the recovering perfectionist within and showcasing the power of creative expression. The Belonging Project invited the community to contribute, and initially, there were doubts about standing out and being vulnerable. But I named it anyway, feeling all the feels as neighbors looked at the strange new sight of the warp and the whiteboard, adorned with thought-provoking questions and verses that beckoned passersby to contribute to the weft.
As more people participated, the fence transformed into a mosaic of individuality, proving that there's no wrong way to weave and reinforcing the idea of belonging. Each unique approach challenged preconceived notions and expanded my understanding of what it truly meant to connect with others.
Tai Chi: A Window to Openness and Connection
But the journey didn't stop at weaving alone. Along the way, I discovered the practice of tai chi. Facing the fence, and looking towards the east, I began a graceful dance that mirrored the ebb and flow of the Belonging Project itself. Tai chi became more than just a personal practice; it was a bridge to connect with the community. Initially timid and self-conscious, tai chi has become a way of connection and greeting, pausing to say hello and welcome the new day.
An Evolving Tapestry: Choosing Happiness, Choosing Change
My colourful fabric supply was dwindling, and I thought that the project was coming to its end. However, fate had other plans, as a neighbour's plea changed everything. "Don't take it down!" she said, for the project to her served as a daily reminder to choose happiness. Inspired by this heartfelt sentiment, the Belonging Project took on new life, expanding along the fence line. Each woven strip became a testament to the power of choice and the beauty of embracing change.
Beyond Ourselves: The Ripple Effect of Belonging
The Belonging Project is still very much about my journey of creating and contributing to the fabric of the community, but it has had a bigger impact than only myself. It touches the life of everyone who encounters it, radiating the message of belonging and connection. From the logs that were once intended for play to the vibrant, ever-growing fence, the project has become a symbol of daring to dream, and the transformative nature of creative expression. It shows that healing can come from unexpected places, and through vulnerability, we find strength. The Belonging Project stands tall, reminding us all that we are woven together, a tapestry of joy and unity.