I’m writing to remind grandmothers of the pivotal role they can play in the lives of their grandchildren. I could write an entire book about Granny, but my intent is to keep this story brief. For her 95th birthday. I published an article in her hometown newspaper to honor her (photo attached of Granny reading the article from her wheelchair.) 

I found it difficult to find words to capture her greatness. She grew up in rural Louisiana, attended a one-room school with one teacher for all grade levels, yet went on to become a model teacher. She helped grandfather run a dairy and, after his sudden fatal heart attack, carried his work forward as a 42-year-old widow with two young daughters. Later in life, she and her two sisters became founders & publishers of their local newspaper, The Interstate Progress, a major accomplishment for women back in the day.

I flew all the way from the Sultanate of Oman, where we were stationed, to attend her 95th birthday. I recall while there, Granny sat me down, looked in my eyes, and instructed, “Dorothy, do not be sad when I die. I’m tired. I’m ready to go.”

Yet even with this gift of knowing, when I awakened on the morning of her funeral, a deep guttural scream escaped from within me at the reality of letting her go. To this day, Granny’s legacy of grit, goodness, and wisdom reverberate within my spirit.

What legacy are you intentionally creating for your beloved grandchildren?