Precious Memories

For most of her adult life she lived in mental torment, but on these days she is free from her prison and radiates with joy.

Photo by Jeanette Nimick

Story by Tina Kramer

Memory 2000

A day with Grandma Irene

The sky blue Reliant parks along the curb and waits. Kenny, our son, looks out the window from his car seat in the back while I sit in the driver’s seat. Grandma Irene opens the door of her house with the biggest smile on her face. These visits are the highlight of her life. Today instead of isolating in her room, she will spend the day with her two favorite people, her daughter and her grandson.

She enters the car and immediately starts chatting with Kenny. Her usual struggles with anxiety melt away as she mentions about how big Kenny has grown and beams with pride.

We arrive at our home on Indian Run Road and enjoy lunch: a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for Kenny and leftovers for grandma and me. Once the meal is over, it’s time to wash the dishes. A chair from the dining room is scooted over to the sink so Kenny can “help” grandma with the dishes. Grandma fills the sink while Kenny plays with the soap bubbles.

Grandma Irene with Kenny

Such simple joy-a day with grandma washing dishes and playing with bubbles. These were the happiest days of my mother’s life. For most of her adult life she lived in mental torment, but on these days she is free from her prison and radiates with joy.

As I work through the trauma of my life, I pause and remember the good times with my mom. Watching my mom enjoy her grandchildren is a happy ending to a story filled with pain and grief. She passed away in 2003 and those few happy years playing with our boys are precious memories.

Reflection

Are you able to remember the good memories as well as you do the bad? Sometimes it takes a bit of determination, but I am confident you can do it!

Scripture

“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philip. 1:3-6 NIV)

Prayer

Good evening Abba Father,

I pray for those reading this blog that you will fill their minds with precious memories. Remind them of the times of joy and laughter. Give them hope that You have good plans for their lives.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

Shout out to Kenny and Haley! We can’t wait till you move to the east coast. Praying for God to fill you with His strength and peace during this busy time of transition.