Arthur Ashe - Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can
Welcome to The Daily Quote – a podcast designed to kickstart your day in a positive way. I'm your host, Andrew McGivern, for June 13th. It’s Sewing Machine Day—a day that honors that marvelous machine that transformed how we create, mend, and express ourselves through fabric. From fashion statements to patchwork quilts to that mysterious pile of “I'll fix it someday” clothes—you know the one—the sewing machine has quietly powered acts of both utility and artistry for generations. So today’s quote comes from Arthur Ashe, the first African American man to win a major tennis championship, including the US Open, Australian Open and Wimbledon.
Arthur Ashe once said:
"Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can."
This quote is engraved above the entrance to Arthur Ashe Stadium at the US Open. Okay, yes—Arthur Ashe wasn’t known for his stitching work, but stay with me. This quote feels tailor-made for Sewing Machine Day. Why? Because sewing—like life—is rarely about having every single piece perfectly laid out. It's about making something beautiful from what’s already in your hands. Maybe your thread doesn't match. Maybe your pattern is from 1982. Maybe your sewing machine coughs like it has a cold every time you try to reverse stitch.
I don't even know what that means!
Still, you start where you are. You use what you have. And you do what you can.
Maybe with an old tablecloth instead of new fabric... use what you have. Whether you're crafting a garment, mending a tear, or stitching together your plans for the future, it’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Small, steady, determined progress. So whatever you’re facing today, remember: you don’t need to wait for ideal conditions. Begin with what you’ve got—even if it’s a little frayed at the edges.
My daughters recently got into sewing. They are taking lessons and everything. They've made pillows and aprons, stuffies and more.
Pretty cool That's going to do it for now. I'm Andrew McGivern signing off for today but I'll be back tomorrow - same pod time, same pod station with another Daily Quote.