My Gram Carr died 16 years ago on Mother’s Day. Were she still alive, she’d be 85 this year. I’ve been thinking a lot about her life. She had a lot of challenges. From what I recall, she met them with a strong spirit, humor and lots of hard work. Here are a few memories along with the life lessons I believe can be derived for current application:
“Who Left This Half Empty Pop Here?”
I recall hearing Gram shout this phrase multiple times throughout various family gatherings. The frustration in her voice generally deterred the offender from claiming the abandoned soda! However, the message of accountability remained – take responsibility for yourself and the things that belong to you. And don’t waste! These days that message is especially important. We Americans have all been given so much. “To whom more is given, more is required.” I think this applies to personal potential too. Maximizing possessions is a natural tendency in this society but it can be more difficult to take time to improve our souls. Gram was always working to improve herself.
“Just Do Your Best to Get Over It!”
Gram’s old blue station wagon had a rip in the back seat and a bit of metal that protruded violently upwards. This metal would snag any shorts or tender flesh that passed over it! I recall griping about it frequently and Gram saying, “Just do your best to get over it!” I think this applies today as I try to get over the imperfections of my own childhood and anticipate all the therapy I’m preparing my own children for! We have to just do our best and get over the rest!
“Let Me Tell You About My Grandchildren!”
This message was printed on Gram’s faded t-shirts, key chains, etc. And it was no idle threat! She’d gladly bend any stranger’s ear about her family. She considered all of us to be her greatest blessings. Thinking about this reminds me to be grateful for all the good things and, more importantly, the people in my life.
Happy Mother’s Day! Who do you celebrate today and why?
CB 
