Things that Matter

A Tribute for my Great Grandmother

My Great Grandmother was my only real family

She taught me everything I know

 

Anything good about me

I have her to thank for that for sure!

 

Born in 1915

Raised on a South Carolina Dairy Farm

Married as an old maid

To my Papa at 15

They lived their days together from then on

 

Papa passed when I was only a year

I didnt get to know him much

But if Grandma loved him

I'd have to say

He must have been a great man

Grandma had a way

She loved everyone she touched

 

A true Southern Bell

That was her look

Beautiful inside and out

Peaceful and wise

So it fit that her favorite animal

was an Owl~

Though I believe even the wise Owl,

would learn a thing or two from my Grandma

 

Her spirit of Love, Grace, and kindness

was not by mistake.

She trusted and loved The Lord

And Prayed every day.

 

When we laid her to rest

On that brisk spring day,

Our Pastor spoke

of the visits he would make.

 

He would check on my Grandma,

See how she was.

Going with the intention

Of helping

reaching out to fufill any need.

 

Reminded that day,

his eyes welled up.

He stood and recounted

how she would light up.

 

Asking instead

of the Church and its flock.

He tells us all of how each time he leaves,

it was he, she checked on.

 

Family and friends,

Old and young

Gather together

smiling through tears,

As one by one

Each person recounts  a memory of days

or moments spent

with a woman they knew

as Grandma or Mother.  

A follower of Christ to all

as she gave to anyone

who ever needed anything

at all.

 

My Grandma grew up

In the time of the first depression

She stocked non perishables

in the second kitchen

She always ensured

that everyone was fed

that no one went hungry

and you always had a bed.

 

After Grandma passed,

My Grandpa began to sort,

through a house of happiness

for generations of my family

and more.

 

My Grandma saved things

that mattered to her,

So as I sit here today,

I reflect and I am blessed,

My Grandma saved me

and gave me the world.

 

In Loving Memory of My Great Grandma

9~15~1915 she joined Jesus 3~7~2011

 

I'll see you when it's time Grandma

 

Ursula Kay Vos 10~14~2011

Author's Note

This is not so much a poem. It is a tribute to my Grandmother written in stanza form. It is a story.
Your feedback is welcome and as always appreciated!
Samll Edit 11/5/2011 I removed one line to give the 10th stanza more flow and a better feel.
Thank you

Reviews

[EMF]

A fitting, and loving tribute to a woman who sounds like someone I would have wanted to meet. In a few lines you reveal so much of her personality, and the impact of her life. Wonderful story, and yes, you have structured it in stanza form. So what does that matter. It is a wonderful read. A good start for the day.