Always Be Different

The Autumn series mirrors my own growth—a time to honor the vibrant path behind me. This season asks me to loosen my grip—on the loss of my mother’s physical presence, on old roles—and lean into the quiet courage of letting go, one small leaf at a time. In these yarns, I’m learning to trust what my mother planted in me and to find a quiet, tender beauty in beginning my next season.

Why this matters 

This story matters because it shows how “being different” moved from a childhood argument over a First Communion dress into a lifelong way of creating and living. Like an unexpected color in an Autumn canopy, my mother’s insistence on standing apart still shows up in my Knot Art and in the choices I make.

A quick lesson from Shirley

Shirley believed that “being different” was something to strive for. I’m sure this accounted for a number of our disagreements, especially as I became aware of a society that rewarded following trends instead of standing apart. She wanted me to be myself, not just follow the herd. Looking at my Knot Art now, I can see I definitely haven’t been a trend follower.

This Lesson Started Early

I remember the disagreement over my First Communion dress in 1967. I expected a poofy white dress with a veil and crown—just like everyone else. Shirley had other ideas. She had a very modern, fitted dress made for me… with a cap. This was a major point of contention between us, and it’s sealed in my memory.

As you might expect, Shirley won that disagreement. On the day of the big event, I still remember the positive comments I overheard at church and at the celebration afterward. Walking down the aisle, I felt special, not just different. It was a big learning moment: stand out and be proud.

I never forgot that dress or the drama around it. Nearly sixty years later, I found the dress and the cap in my mother’s dresser. What a wonderful keepsake for both of us.

That philosophy has driven many creative decisions throughout my life: self‑acceptance, and acceptance of others. Being different can be deeply satisfying. It can spark big and little ideas, and it can make life more fun and interesting.

Does every idea land? Heck no. But sometimes there is great joy in simply experiencing people’s reactions.

Remembering that fitted dress and cap reminds me that there is quiet power—and joy—in not matching everyone else.