Get Stitched // The Stitch Blog

Nanako and Andrew going travelling with the Stitch social community for over 50s

A Tale of Heroic Friendship

Seattle Stitch member Nanako has written a stirring memoir of her personal experience joining Stitch to find friendship, create more connections and enjoy events.

“I immediately saw the potential of Stitch to go beyond dating sites, meetups and other social groups. I was tired of starting over every time my relationships fell through.”

“Andrew explained that he chose the name to signify his goal of connecting people. Stitching people together.

“I thought – why not give Stitch a try?”

Older adults enjoy activities for over 50s near me

Nanako details the heroic story of Tei Fujiwara, a Japanese heroine whose tale of resilience is an inspiration to Nanako.

“Stitch members tell me they joined Stitch because they 1) lost their partner due to divorce, death or separation, or 2) felt lonely and isolated despite having a partner. Although not as obvious or dramatic as what Tei faced, the threats we face are just as real.”

Nanako’s journey has enabled her to get to know the Seattle Stitch community.

“As I slowly get to know fellow Stitch members, I try to look beyond first impressions and snap judgements. Who knows who will be there in moments of need? Or if tragedy strikes? It may very well be a friend or even a kind stranger. Physical limitations and illness are real challenges for many Stitch members. We’ve all gotten older. In this last chapter of my life, is it possible to build new relationships, new friendships, new connections?

“As I’ve let go of my old expectations and romantic ideals, I’ve given myself and others grace. I’m trying to create new relationships. New Stitches. Not in the old singular romantic mold, but in deeper and wider patterns with more people. As somebody said, ‘Instead of just watching Friends, we’ve got to actually BE Friends.’ Stretching Andrew’s Stitch metaphor to knitting, I’m sure I’m ‘dropping a lot of stitches’ as I struggle to create a new pattern, but I’m hopeful the results will be stronger and better.”

“I miss the rush and excitement of new romance, but I don’t miss the painful withdrawal symptoms. Stable relationships of all kinds – between friends, neighbors, acquaintances, lovers, strangers and even enemies – need to be patiently nurtured to reconnect us. Like the many humble stitches in a great swath of fabric. A few stitches are glimmering, vivid shades of silk but most are plain, humble threads of sturdy cotton. Connections which fall into the category of unselfish, generous, and kind Friendship.”

Nanako’s story is a warm reminder that everyone faces unseen challenges, but we all help each other when we attend Stitch events. Be sure to check out the rest of the story by clicking the link below.

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