mary anne stewart remembers grandma griffiths

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.