Every Quilt Has a Story 6
Quilting is in my DNA by Margrit Wallace, Ed. D.
Life often reveals itself in layers, much like participating in a mystery quilt project. Often during our life journey, we find ourselves in a mysterious expedition that is much like completing a mystery quilt. A journey that lies not in seeking answers but in embracing questions. Each clue that we collect during our trek has its excitement and its challenges.
Oftentimes, we must look closely to uncover the treasures hidden within clues. To understand how clues reveal answers about life’s mysteries, including struggles, dreams, and questions about our existence.
At the age of four, I was adopted from an orphanage in Germany by an American military family stationed in Germany. My new life included seven siblings, a new country, and a new language. This life-changing spiral was clouded by barriers of language and presented a blank slate about my past. Much of my childhood was about navigating my new life and accepting unpredictable changes. I seemed to have no identity and fervently held each clue about my being that could assist me in forming a vision for my life. Each question that I had about my life led me down a path of self-discovery and revealed threads of connections in my tapestry of life.
Through two distinct miracles from heaven, I was able to unravel some significant life mysteries.
In 2001, I received a phone call from an attorney in Germany that led to surprising discoveries about my birth mother and our family. A trip to Germany in 2002, provided answers about my birth family’s challenges that led to my ultimately leaving the family and my country of birth.
These discoveries provided more information about my true identity- about who I was. A renewed vision of my life was forming – a tapestry of my life, woven with threads of joy, sorrow, and strength emerged. The mysteries of life have revealed profound truths that have echoed beyond my own experiences. With newfound clarity and tears glistening in my heart, I could now see that life’s mysteries were not meant to be solved but embraced.
Each question would guide me toward understanding and growth. I began to understand that growth often arises from discomfort. I realized that life would continue to shape me, and each struggle would forge a stronger version of myself. Whenever I looked at my tapestry, the reflections were revealing my true character.
Then in 2008, Ancestry DNA data revealed my deepest mystery. My birthfather’s family and I were finally CONNECTED! This was the most breathtaking discovery. It forever changed my life outlook. I felt a warmth radiate from within, igniting something deep inside me.
I have discovered that I am not only my father and mother’s daughter, but I am a culmination of the love and memories of all who came before me and those yet to come. I have a past and a future!
My father’s family has celebrated and embraced me with joy and a resolute commitment to include me in every stitch of their tapestry. In 2024, my father’s family decided that I should be the keeper of a family treasure. A double wedding ring quilt made by my paternal grandmother. My heart exploded with pride and an overwhelming feeling of connection.
I have come to realize that life will continue to shape me, and each struggle will forge a stronger version of myself. I feel the energy of those who loved me wrapping around me like a warm embrace, reminding me that my parent’s spirit lives on in my stories, choices, and the bond that we share.
I embrace this journey. Life is filled with questions and clues that lead us to discover our purpose, our connections, and ultimately strength within. With a grateful heart that has been revitalized by my experiences, I understand that life’s mysteries are not daunting shadows to be feared, but rather captivating stories with clues waiting to unfold or be revealed.
