Fragile Things and Families

Life has sure kept me on my toes and away from the blog this week. My dear sweet grandmother put up a good fight and made her way out of the ICU. She still isn't in great shape but she's still with us. We're celebrating small victories around here. I drove down to Logan today to see visit her. I sat with her few a few minutes alone, she was having trouble breathing so I was content to sit with her in the quiet. As I looked at her I was overcome with gratitude for the example she has set for me. I thought about how full her life has been, and how many lives she's touched. I prayed that I may live a life with even a fraction of the kindness and compassionate as given away. I thought of how her and my grandfather who have been together for 69 years now and how much I hope to someday be in such a dedicated relationship. It's also been interesting to see my grandmother at deaths door whilst anxiously awaiting the arrival of my first nephew. the whole cycle of life thing just can't help but make you introspective. I also thought of how thankful I am for my grandmother to rear such an incredible woman whom I call my mother and my best friend. One of the hardest parts about this whole ordeal is realizing how hard this is on my own mother. I watch her be so loving with her own mother and the concern and love in every action that it breaks my heart to see her sad. I know most girls will tell you their mother is their best friend, but I can't help but express that very sentiment. I am sincerely overwhelmed with gratitude for her and her devotion to her family. I am beyond thankful for the examples of strong and graceful women in my who have paved the way before me. who have taught me to serve, to be charitable, genuine, and kind.

Anyway, I'll end with this comment from grandma my cousin Sarahanne shared with us other cousins this past week : "What a powerful day yesterday to visit with my cousins, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles. Even those that weren't physically present your love and strength was felt in grandmas hospital room. My heart has been lifted and strengthened by you all. I thought I'd share my favorite comment from grandma last night. I asked her how she's been able to get through all the hardships of life. She said 'oh sweetie it's never hard to offer love and support to people who need it. It's a pleasure to love and give comfort. There's nothing hard about that.' "

And she's right isn't she?

Take some time to help someone out this week, it will do you no harm, and will bring great joy. As I kissed my sweet grandmother goodbye and started the dark rainy drive home, I promised myself that I would try a little harder to be a little better. maybe someday I'll be able to make a fraction of the impact on others hearts as she has.

Labels: family