Tribute to My Grandma

My grandma is one of the most remarkable people I have ever known and a true inspiration in my life. She’s the only grandparent I’ve had for the last 12 years, and she has far exceeded the expectations of the position. She has always been so present and supportive in my life, continuing just as strong while I’ve been in Ecuador. She is the epitome of selflessness and generosity, and she is one of those people who brings joy to all around her. I have always admired her love of education and art, and her devotion to her loved ones. Often while I have been overseas, I have thought upon my grandma’s youth and how she served as an airline stewardess and went overseas with the Red Cross. I love the thought that she had the traveler’s bug that I have, that itch to see the world. But more than anything I love her because she is my grandma- the person who always made me drink a glass of orange juice in the morning when I visited, who always sent cards for every possible holiday, who always made me feel so beautiful and special, who was always willing to lend an ear, who always took 10 minutes to say goodbye on the phone, who never let me leave her empty-handed, and who helped to show me the meaning of unconditional love. I have been blessed to have her in my life and I only hope that I can be half the woman one day that she has been.

I flew home Thursday morning and was at the hospital within the hour. Though it was terribly sad to see my grandma in her condition, it was wonderful that the family was all around her and that the room seemed to be filled more with love than despair. We spent the day telling funny stories and saying goodbye, and experiencing every emotion in between. Grandma passed away that evening with children and grandchildren present, and she went so gracefully and peacefully.

I know I will miss my grandma terribly. On big occasions like my wedding, I know I will be longing for her to share in the day, but I will miss her on a daily basis over little things, like every time I talk about tomatoes or eat a Kit-Kat bar. But I am just thankful that I had the time with her that I did, and that she is able to rest now and be in the comfort of God and all her loved ones who have gone before her. And it’s nice to think I have an extra little angel on my shoulder now too.

And while I would have thought the funeral and such would have brought me the most heartache, it was really those events that brought me so much comfort. I loved spending time with my extended family and sharing both sadness and hope with them. There was such a feeling of love and unity when we were all gathered, that I really thought my grandma would have been proud. And my favorite event of all came after her memorial Mass when some of us sat at her favorite restaurant for over 5 hours just telling stories and laughing together. What a great tribute to her life and the impact she had on others.

Being home was definitely difficult at times, but I am just so thankful that I was able to share in that time with my family and participate in the tribute to my grandma. I also was so lucky to have friends in the area that gave me so much support as well.  I know I need to carry on, yet while keeping my grandma’s memory alive. So I am back to Ecuador! But now I won’t have to call my grandma to tell her about my experiences because she has a front row seat:)