One-minute memory of Grandma Griffiths by Mary Anne Stewart
"What stands out most is the one-on-one time
I got to spend with her. It could have been learning how to make her delicious
slush by her side, or learning how to play Yahtzee at her kitchen table, or how
to complete the marble game quickly and flawlessly. It could have been putting
together a puzzle, memorizing the capitols of each state, or reading a story on
the sofa. Each of those memories shares a common theme – that Grandma was
completely engaged with me in the activity, completely aware of me as a lovable and worthy human being. Her kindness and sense of humor kept me
eagerly and naturally engaged with her, and not once that I can remember did I
ever feel insignificant in her presence. She did not demand that I be anything
for her . . .okay, except maybe a well-mannered child, with no sign of a grand
canyon between me and the table during meals . . . or a patient shopper on our
sometimes day-long trips. Even during my last conversations with her over the
past couple of months, she was genuinely interested in my life and my
well-being, as well as what was happening in the lives of each of my children.
Her memory and her wit were still sharp, even with her honest expression of being
frustrated at losing her capacities. While
she was certainly an independent thinker, and someone who could take on the
world in heels with style and dynamic energy, she did not compromise her
ability to love. And when I was with her, or reading one of the many
inspirational letters and cards she sent me over the years, I did not question
my worth. I knew she loved me. I know she still does."
Comments: Many times, others can say what I cannot. This is so beautifully written and captures how I feel about my grandmother perfectly. She passed away on Tuesday, June 17. I will miss her.
