As I reflect on my life during this Month of Women’s History and the trickle down effect through the generations, I realize I am all of the women in my life. Last week, I embraced the oral stories of Momma Jo and the fortitude that has trickled down from her.
Generations not so far removed are Grandma Callie and Grandma Catherine. If still living today, would be 110+ years. Like the flowers that bloom season after season, their spirit for life resonate in my my mind and heart.
My strength along the many grooved paths of life come from the women that have passed on before me.
Grandma Callie, a wife, a mother, who worked as a domestic. A devoted believer of God in heaven and Christ his son. A women who diligently went to her Tuesday lodge meeting. A women who always embraced all of my stubbornness and my talents. Grandma Callie for the welcoming love expressed for my husband by asking him to clip her toenails, to the joy she engulfed of her great grandchildren.
Grandma Callie, the women who would sit on the porch proudly wearing the hat I crocheted, with the window pane stitch, given to her with all the love expected from a small child. Grandma Callie, the women who’s long prayers at Thanksgiving dinner are still missed today. Grandma Callie, the women who, on a domestic income, determined to buy land as a foothold for her children to have ownership in this place we call America. Grandma Callie, a women that has made history in my life and many others.
Grandma Catherine, my paternal grandmother. Her determination to excel at her job working the lines. For her insight to invest, for her insight to own property, rent out to others that needed a place to call home. Grandma Catherine for her show of love to my girls by ensuring they had their Sunday go to church hat and purse. The memories they still hold today. Grandma Catherine for her determined battle through Alzheimer’s and her stubbornness to the end. Grandma Catherine, for her sweet smile that holds a memory in my heart.
These two women have sprinkled their spirit on me like the dandelions that blow in the wind. They have grounded me in perseverance. They have grounded me in God’s truth. They have personified the maskil that has guided me through life. The wisdom forever captured in the seventy eight Psalm that comes from the Lord-” My people, hear my teaching, listen to the words of my mouth. I will open my mouth with a parable; I will teach you lessons from the past- things we have heard and known, things our ancestors have told us. We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done.”
May we all press on through the generations and remember the history from whence we come.
Always grateful,
Walking In Your Gifts 