I am so glad she was able to hear the stories we wrote. It is a great reminder that if someone means a lot to you, tell them right now, because you never know when you may lose your chance to do so.
This is the story I wrote for my Grandma.
Passing on Grandma’s Love & Values
By Gina
I am Grandma’s youngest grandchild. For years she
was the oldest and I was the youngest at family gatherings. We learned to watch
out for each other and had a special bond. Being the youngest I also probably
spent more time observing my family, and began to realize how truly special my
Grandma was and how I wanted to strive to pass on some of her finest
characteristics and values.
I shared with Grandma a love for the beach and for
nature. I remember as a young child, many of the adults did not want to go
swimming in the ocean. Grandma was never afraid of the cold water or getting
sand in her bathing suit. It was special when she would take me out swimming
and we would find the perfect spot, way out in the waves, but not too deep. I
hope that when my children ask me to take them out in the water, I too, put
aside the fact that I will get wet and cold, and have sand in my bathing suit
and we will enjoy that time together.
I
remember spending time at Grandma’s house on Palm Avenue when I was very young.
It seemed like she was always making fresh bread. It was a fun new experience
to make something with her, from scratch. I remember there would be flour and
bowls everywhere. Sometimes we would take the flour, put it on our cheeks and
just laugh together. Then, we would have to wait for the dough to rise, which
is a long process to be patient for. Grandma had that patience, but I didn’t. I
would always sneak off a little pinch of dough to eat when she was not looking.
Now days, with bread machines and box mixes, most people no longer cook and
bake the way Grandma did. Probably the only type of dough most children are
familiar with is cookie dough that comes in ice cream. Remembering the
experiences that I had makes me prioritize some time in the kitchen and show my
children what it means to make something from scratch.
As I got older, I would occasionally run errands
with Grandma or attend meetings with her and her peers. While these were not
always our most exciting adventures in my opinion, it was interesting to see
how others related to her, those who were not part of our family. Every where
we went, Grandma knew someone, and would stop to smile and say hello. After she
introduced me, her friends would always tell me that my Grandma was the sweetest
lady they knew. I believed them, because Grandma was one of the sweetest people
I knew as well. I do not ever remember Grandma ever saying anything mean or bad
about anyone. She demonstrates the importance of accepting, and not judging
others. This brought peace to her life, as well as to those around her. I’ve
got a ways to go, but I work to live my life by her example, acknowledging the value
in truly respecting others.
Grandma was also the one who showed me God’s love.
She always shared her church with all of us. She showed me how to pray and always reminded me
that God loved me, and loved everyone. Grandma told stories of how she had met
angels on more than one account. I think it’s even likely Grandma is an angel
herself. By her example, her stories, and unconditional love, Grandma helped me
become a believer in God and his Glory
Thank you Grandma for being you, and teaching me
such important lessons in life. I know I am fortunate to have had such a
wonderful, caring grandma and I think it’s so special that you have had the
chance to meet handfuls of your great grandchildren. You will always be in my
thoughts and in the stories I tell as I teach my children about the beauty in
the world, precious times together, love and kindness, and worshiping God.
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