I want to learn to embroider.
I want to teach it to my daughters.
I want them to learn the art of tokens,
and what the hands of fools can make. I want
them to give handkerchiefs to their husbands.
I want to start traditions for the following
women of my line. How they will forget
these words, but will dream of pink-skinned infants
and mornings making them.
Here. I made this for you.
Every push and pull of thread and
weave, every color I chose. When I pricked my
fingers, I was reminded of your true nature.
When I pulled thread through fiber, I was
reminded of your mouth, your arms, your
breath in the darkness. When I chose the pattern
I was aware of your face.
When you look at it, it will remind you
of our family. It will remind you of me.

08/07/2007

Author's Note: This was written in January.

Posted on 08/07/2007
Copyright © 2026 Maria Kintner