This picture hangs in my dining room. So many memories.
As I returned the phone call, a warning was necessary for my husband. “I’m going to cry.”
The voice on the other end asked the triggering question.
“How’s your grandma?” she kindly inquired.
I had only seconds to consider a polite answer. The grief which has whelmed me came surfacing back though truth told, it’s never far behind.
“We lost her 19 months ago. I’m so sorry you didn’t know. It was quick, we only knew she had brain cancer for about a week. I’m so sorry to tell you that. She loved you. You were a good friend.” I choke back the tears, I’m in the hallway of the hotel. I’m in Fort Benning visiting my Soldier on a brief pass from Ranger School. My stomach lurches within, it’s shocking how hearing from my grandma’s old friend makes me remember this woman I loved so much. I remember that I haven’t forgotten that I miss her.
After returning home, a card arrived in the mail. It was from my grandma’s friend. It was a sympathy card. Like the phone call, this card was a surprise.
I so appreciated getting this card, what a thoughtful expression and kindness.
But it was a blessed affirmation. She remembered ME. More importantly, she remembered my grandma and the friendship they shared. She remembered the sadness displayed in our phone conversation even though I reassured her she had done NOTHING wrong. I’m glad she called though it was painful. She missed her too.
Check this out and write for your sanity, that’s my personal experience!
Writing for five minutes can be a blessed experience even if you cry. Trust me, I know!
My Awesome Olive Shoots 
Oh, Cindy. Isn’t it amazing how shared grief can be so sweet? As ridiculous as it sounds, I’m always blessed at funerals. We have this extraordinary opportunity to help one another carry a burden, not to mention the fellowship and laughter that often take place between people who probably see each other far too infrequently. Though I miss my departed loved ones, I have sweet memories of their partings. I hope you do as well.
Awww, thanks for sharing. Death can bring horrible grief when a loved one dies, but at least you know that she is no longer in pain. And thank Jesus we have that assurance!
Thank you Ashley! I pray that I will see her again!
Meredith, that is so true. I have learned that funerals are often joyous and a beautiful time of appreciation for a person. My grandma gave herself fully and I am blessed with treasures of memories!
Thanks for stopping by my site. And here I thought your name was Olive…now I get it! Love that verse!
Thanks Heath! That cracked me up thinking someone thought my name was Olive. It’s a great name and very Scriptural!
What perfect timing with the card! That was a God thing. 🙂 I love “God things.” It sure does mean a lot when someone remembers, doesn’t it?
Yes, Lisa, it was a tremendous blessing to me. I guess the Lord knew I needed another acknowledgement of how profoundly I miss her. I know you understand.
I love God things, too! Ditto, Lisa. May you find strength in your memories of her.
Thank you Jodi! I cling to those memories! Thank you for encouraging me today!