What a special lady my Great Grandma was. I've been reflecting over the past few days on who she was to me. If someone asked me to describe her, one of my first words would be kind. I can still hear her sweet voice in my head, "I sure do love you." However, the second word I would use is strong or maybe even tough. The picture above shows her kind face and eyes, but along with her gentleness, she was one strong lady. Life was not always easy for her but she faced it with a smile. She was hardworking and wasn't pampered in any way. She loved the Lord and loved her family. As a little girl, I would stay at her house with my siblings for a few days each summer. I have such great memories of her taking the time to play with us. When we were at her house she was right there beside us playing games, and dress up. Being away from home and away from my parents sometimes made me uneasy. I remember feeling scared one night to fall asleep and she sat beside my bed until I drifted off. I remember looking over at her to make sure she was still there and of course, she was.
I know not many 32 year olds have their great grandmother in their life. I did, and I am so thankful that she was a part of my life as long as she was. I am thankful that Lainey knew her great great grandmother but I can't help but feel sad that she never met little Coop. Some day.
My faith in the Lord is an important part of my life every day but especially in seasons of grief and saying goodbye. How do people do it who have no hope? I know that I will see her again. I know that she is in heaven without that silly old walker she hated. I know that she is in the presence of the Lord. I know that she is reunited with her siblings and family that she loved so dearly. Thank you God that we can know. One more reason to look forward to heaven. What a blessing to have known Helen Mildred Payne.
