She is 90 years old and one of the most beautiful people I know. For the past few years, she has been in a nursing/retirement home due to weakening health. Lately, I've had the opportunity to help her at mealtimes, and although I've visited and seen her several times throughout my life, I've learned so many new things about her over the last few months.
She never complains, and she's one of the most polite people I know. She has such a lovely smile, some of the things she says just warm your heart. Even when she makes jokes about not finishing food or me accidentally spilling on her . She sometimes doesn't remember who I am, but she's always happy to see me (or any visitors). We like and dislike the same foods. Pro: ice cream, onions, fruit. Anti: fish. You know, I bet it's pretty lonesome and boring being in a bed all day, but there is never an unkind word out of this lady's mouth. Ever. That is one amazing feat that I don't even think she realizes that she does. One time, my Aunt Donna and I were there, and we held up a mirror for her to look at herself. "Wow, a little ugly today," she said. We quickly assured her that in no way, shape, or form could she ever be ugly. But then we did comb her hair to make it look a little less crazy. =)
Often I'll play music for her on her keyboard. She's always loved music, and although she's too weak to sing, she'll still move her hand in the conducting pattern of the music. She compliments my singing and playing, although I'm certainly not the greatest.
Sometimes when I get to her room, she's asleep. As I wait for the food tray to come, I read some in her life history book. I'm awed to think of the incredible pillar of faith and example she has been to so many people throughout her lifetime. Her writing style is so pleasant . ..just like she is. I find it quite appropriate that the title of her life history book is Life is Beautiful.
Yes, Grandma, life is beautiful. Because you make it so!
1 comment:
Thanks, Rebecca, for that beautiful tribute to my mother. I too know how beautiful she is and what a privilege it is to serve her and how I have been blessed by her wonderful attitude -- never an unkind word or complaint! Thanks for your help in the meal schedule as several of us have the privilege of feeding her meals to her.
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