Going to Grandma's

A thank-you poem for my grandma — read at her funeral this summer.

It’s hard to find enough words to describe what Grandma meant to us —
her impact reached far and deep.

I found myself returning to memories that brought her spirit to life
in small, meaningful ways.

So I wrote a short poem called “Going to Grandma’s.”

Before I share it here, I think it’s important to say this...

Grandma is one of the safest souls I’ve ever known.
And I think that’s because she embodied the loving, calming, gentle presence of our Heavenly Father.

When you were around her, you could feel that presence.
She was a beautiful example of how to live a life through Christ.

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Going to Grandma’s

When you went to Grandma’s,
life was put in its proper perspective.
You slowed down.
You were present.
You were kind.
You were grateful.

There were hugs on arrival —
always followed by a tender compliment.

Prayers before mealtime.
Games of Scrabble after dinner.

She would ask about your school,
your work,
your family —
and listen with genuine care and attentiveness.

Sneaking a peek for a treat in that small round wooden dish.
Excitedly accepting a Barq’s root beer —
and even more excitedly, getting to go downstairs to get it.

Wearing one of her cozy oversized sweatshirts and a bandana —
just like her —
to rake leaves or take a brisk walk.

Finding my spot in promptly washing, drying,
and putting away the dishes after each meal.
(At least, that’s how I remember it.)

Boredly — but always thankfully — taking a rest after lunchtime,
with tea and muffins to follow.

Settling into the keeping room to catch up.

Tiptoeing up and down the stairs —
just to see if the eyes in that portrait really did follow.

Church, here, on Sunday morning.

Soaking in her pork and dumpling technique
in anticipation of supper.

Never forgetting dessert —
with the famous after-dinner question:
“Dessert now or later?”
And agreeing, of course — both.

Feeling comforted by the memories
held on her photo-covered fridge.

When you went to Grandma’s,
you learned to live.

And when you left,
you were a more patient person,
a more present person,
a kinder person,
a more grateful person.

Thank you, Grandma.

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Every word I share here comes from the depths of my heart, and I hope a few have found their way to yours. ❤️

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