Oct 11 2007
My Gift of God
Last week I went to see this woman. She is my 97 year old grandmother and her name is Dorothy which means, "Gift of God." She truly has been a gift of God to me and to all the people in her life. I learned some things last week about my grandmother's life that I didn't know before. We talked about memories that I did know. There are many things that she does not remember any more. But, my memories of her are wonderful and I am truly blessed to have had a relationship with her and a heritage of having been her granddaughter.
My grandfather died 22 years ago. We just put Grandma in the nursing home this spring. One of the things that was found in going through her belongings was a Bible which Grandma had written in. In that Bible she had written a description of what Heaven was going to be for her. The most important part for her was going to be holding her husband's hand again. They loved each other so much. And they were an example to me of a wonderful married couple.
I lived with my grandparents for 2 1/2 years while I attended college and did an internship. Grandma took care of Grandpa since he had had a severe car accident when I was young and several heart attacks after that. Grandpa would peel the apples when Grandma made apple pies. She didn't mind his snoring because then she knew he was beside her in bed. He loved her "salt and pepper" graying hair.
When they first married Grandpa would sell mole's feet for a quarter so that they could go to a movie. Grandma used to love to dance, but Grandpa didn't so he used to say that Grandma would, "Dance with the wolves, but go home with the sheep." My Grandpa was a good man. My Grandma loved to laugh.
Grandma did have pain in her life, but she would never talk about that. I don't think I ever saw her complain or cry very much. Last week I found out that she had an alcoholic father. Because of his drinking they had to move around a lot when she was a child. He's kind of stuck in her brain now and she talks about him whereas she never did before. But, she points to the picture of Grandpa and says, "He was a good man." I'm so glad she had him.
The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; Indeed, my heritage is beautiful to me. Psalm 16:6
As a mother I have tried to educate my children in everything I think about life. I have also found that many times I was learning right along with them. When I didn't know the answer to something the most important thing for me to do was to point them to the One who did have all the answers. We have had to work through many tough issues together, but we have rejoiced in God's blessings to us. Now my children are nearly grown and my life has entered a new season. I have discovered that I have changed also. My blog is a place to express my thoughts and feelings about my God, my family, and about life through word and through photography. May my life bring honor to the Almighty.
What a beautiful lady… and what a lovely tribute to her you’ve shared here.
I would just love your thoughtful input though as we go along.
Jenny, I was hoping that maybe you’d join me in this study that I’ve just started with Julie of Seeking the Old Paths and some other ladies. I know that you’re so busy though, so no pressure of course!
Hoping you are well.
love & shalom~