Remembrance

A world of grief and pain
Flowers bloom
Even then

-Kobayashi Issa

Kobayashi Issa, often referred to as Issa, is one of the three best known haiku poets. You can read some of his other works here. I came across the above poem when I was trying to decide what do make for today's piece, which is actually for both November 1 and 2. This particular work was thought to have been written after the death of Issa's child. It's often discussed for its dual meaning, since it can be interpreted as being angry at flowers for continuing to bloom during periods of grief or being hopeful that something good can happen even in the darkest of times. I like the second meaning best, but I definitely understand both. 

I was raised Catholic, but left the church in the late 1990s. Despite that, I still find myself observing certain traditions I grew up with, particularly around holidays. I always observe All Souls Day. When I was a kid, we usually went to mass depending on when the day fell during the week. As an adult, I usually do something quiet like lighting memorial candles or taking a walk. Being in nature is often a good way to remember people. Today, I thought I'd stitch something. 

White flowers are often used in memorials and funerals, and are considered symbols of sympathy and remembrance. That's one of the things I remember most from growing up going to church for All Souls Day; white flowers. We've all lost something or someone in the last year, and I hope my flowers help someone remember and mourn as they need to.

I really love the back too. 

Tomorrow is Election Day, so I'll be working all day as an election officer. I opted to do another panel piece rather than skip a day, so there won't be a new piece up tomorrow. If you live somewhere with an election tomorrow, please vote if you're registered and didn't vote early. Elections matter.

Details:
Stitches: lazy daisy, satin and back stitches, French knots
Thread palette: DMC 310 (3 strands), Etoile Blanc (6 strands), B5200 (3, 4 strands), Blanc (3 strands)