As an only child, my
aunts and uncles who had children provided cousins that were cherished as
playmates despite our varied age differences. The cousins enjoyed many happy
family experiences when we got together with our shared grandparents and common
background. Some of my relatives lived out of state. I saw them less
frequently, only on special or important family occasions like: reunions,
special holidays, weddings and funerals.
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| Uncle Norm, Aunt Esther, my Mom & Aunt Ethel (still living at age 94) |
I remember my Grandmother
Johnson’s funeral because it was so unexpected. She was only 76 years old which
seemed ancient in those days when I was younger, but isn’t now as I’ve grown
older. Grandma was about to be released from the hospital after having
pneumonia. She had just written a letter to one of her daughters saying:
(Feb 14, 1967) Well here I am, came here
yesterday. Rachel bought me. I had a better night last night and I am out of
pain. Have no blood clots this time so I don't think I'll be here over a week
so glad I came now. Don't you worry. I'm so much better here. Have the very
best of care. Its the only place to be when you are sick. So by by all my love
as ever Mother. (Feb 16, 1967) Dear
ones, just a few lines to say. I'm doing fine. I think the Dr. will let me go
home Sunday. Gee I hope so, its so noisy in here. You just can't think and it
snowed again since I came. And is very cold hope you are both well. Love,
Mother
A few hours after this letter
was written, Grandma died of a blood clot. It was a time of sadness for our
family as we celebrated her life of loving and service to us all.
The cousins I lived closest
to had a big influence on my life. My oldest cousin Jody was the person who
took me to church. Later when she married, and was divorced with three little
ones to raise, she became an example to me of carrying on as a single parent. I
never realized that one day I would follow in her footsteps with the same
challenges.
Would love to hear your
family stories about experiences that influenced who you are today. Just write
a couple of paragraphs and I’ll help you with editing-spelling, grammar, etc.
Sharing your stories can strengthen your family ties and leave a legacy. NEXT
TIME: Family Legacies.