Grandmother - In Her Own Humble Way

This last week I was privileged to attend the funeral of one of my aunts who has had a wonderful influence on my life. This lovely lady waited 12 years for her darling daughter to come to their home, and wept 21 years later when that daughter was called back to heaven. She didn't become a grandmother the way others do, but at her funeral her legacy as "mother" and "grandmother" was undeniable.

As a dear cousin shared, Aunt K, was as much mother to a few of her nieces and nephews as their own mother had been. Every one of the children of those nieces and nephews considered and honored her as their grandmother, finding ways to spend time with her in special interests and activities. I heard many of them as they paid their last respects say things such as "sleep well grandma," "love you always grandma," "So happy for you grandma," and "Grandpa will be there soon." Her precious daughter did not have the time on earth to give Aunt K the title of grandma, but those that were closest to her over the past 40 years made sure she knew they claimed the title for her anyway, for she taught them through action and love what being a grandmother was.

While some grandmothers can number their grandchildren with ease, Aunt K probably couldn't number all that called her grandmother because of the relationship of their parents to Aunt K and Uncle M, her loving sweetheart of 72 year. After the death of their precious daughter, this couple was called as the mission president of the Dublin Ireland Mission. From the comments of one of the speakers, who represented over 300 missionaries, this loving couple became mother and father to every one of those missionaries they encouraged, taught and were an example to. Each of those missionaries claimed them as mother and father and each of their children honor this couple as grandma and grandpa. Imagine from those few years of service how many children this "grandmother" touched with her example, her faith, her graciousness, her acceptance and open arms for all who came near her, and her testimony.

This lovely lady lived her life with grace and humility. She gently taught so many how to be a great kind of grandmother She taught that grandmothers are full of love, have special talents to share, give of their time, share testimonies, give encouragement, give service willingly, love company, are creative and are never too busy to love or listen. Above all, she taught how important it is to love your sweetheart, to serve him and to serve with him, to hold hands every chance you get, stand beside him in love and behind him in support, and always have a kiss ready to bestow in a gentle moment.

I don't have a companion at this time to love and support, but I hope that in every other way I can be as good an example to my own grandchildren as Aunt K was to all who loved her and called her GRANDMOTHER.