Became Obsessed with Cross-Stitching in Secret

Ever since I lost my job a few weeks ago, I've been struggling to find purpose and something new to do. My friend introduced me to cross-stitching at her birthday party last month, and it was like finding a tiny oasis of calm amidst the chaos of my life. Since then, every moment alone, I sneak off with my embroidery hoop and lose myself in intricate patterns and calming colors. It's such an odd hobby for someone as clumsy and impatient as me, but there's something about creating these small masterpieces that makes all my worries melt away. The only problem is keeping it a secret from everyone else - every time someone asks how I'm doing or what I've been up to, I have to pretend like I haven't spent hours in my room stitching tiny flowers and animals. It feels so selfish when there's so much pressure on me to find another job and move forward with my life. But the quiet satisfaction of these little works of art keeps drawing me back.