On January 1, 2015 a large group of us gathered; beautiful babies and toddlers, spirited elementary aged children and teenagers coming into their own; parents, children, and their children's children; ordained ministers, educators, social workers, missionaries, and artists. The group gathered and the food piled in, way too much food. The group gathered and the laughter began, hugs were shared, and memories were remembered.
I remember the vacations on the lake and on the beach where the twelve cousins played on the beach and played in the sand, put on shows, and whispered secrets in hidden corners.
I remember pool parties and mischief, music, and fun. There were crazy lip sync contests, games, movies, and singing.
Mixed with the laughter and the stories, always prayer and care, support and so much love.
In the center of all, laughing to the point of tears, smiling with delight, offering words of encouragement, telling stories of God's grace and claiming answered prayers has always been the beautiful woman who made it all possible. The woman who has grown more beautiful with each passing year and who has ushered peace into my heart throughout my life in ways that are incomprehensible.
Peaceful moments of my childhood involve the special days when Gram lived in our home in Louisville. I loved the times when I somewhat timidly knocked on the door of her apartment at the end of the house and she welcomed me in to talk or watch TV or just sit in her presence. I always felt welcome, loved, special.
It was during this time that Gram taught a class for the children at our church on Wednesday nights, a class that consisted of only Gretchen and me. Although we were the only kids who showed up, she prepared as if she were leading a vibrant children's ministry. The stories were told to us from the heart and I am sure life application was shared. One evening she asked if I had asked Jesus into my heart and if I wanted to. Of course I did! She led me through a prayer of salvation. I was 5 years old and my journey with Christ began.
I remember a day during my freshman year of high school when I woke up with tears spilling for no reason from the moment I opened my eyes. I cried and I cried and I didn't know why. Perhaps teenage insecurity, a rough time of the month, or the general emotional struggles I continue to have to overcome. I missed my ride to school and mom did not know what to do with me. She finally forced me in the car, my eyes wet and puffed, still resisting. The closer we got to school, the more out of control I became. As a final resort, she took me to see Gram. It seems that before I could even say a word, Gram told me how I felt. I didn't even know what I was feeling, but she did and she could name it. Being understood opened the door to freedom and healing that day. She spoke understanding and peace and love. And she prayed. I have always felt the power in Gram's prayers. Her dedication as a prayer warrior has always been awe-inspiring and I experienced a miracle that day as her prayer enabled my tears to dry and hope to surface once again so that I could face the challenges and be open to the joy of life.
I am beyond grateful for all the cherished moments. There was a memorable trip when circumstances forced mom, Gram, and I to drive 6 hours "cheek to cheek", all three of us together, in the front seat of an old car. The laughter and conversation was crazy and real. I am sure that truth was spoken and we all knew how much we matter to each other. I am grateful for the continued love and that my own children get to experience the blessing of "G.G."
Most of all, I am thankful for the legacy. It is a legacy where family is the lasting foundation and Jesus holds it all together. Generations now and in the future have and will impact this world with love and truth, prayer and hope. There is so much of this that is the result of Gram's faithfulness and the decision she and Grandpa made many years ago to live lives devoted to the Lord.
I am so blessed. We are so blessed. Thanks be to God for the indescribable gift!
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