Tuesday, September 20, 2011

A Rough Few Weeks

They say what won't kill you will only make you stronger, and I believe I am indeed a bit stronger.

Graham...the sweet, yet tough 90 year old woman that I have blogged about in the past, passed away on the 6th of this month. It was a shocker as I was in the midst of helping a dear friend of mine dealing with the funeral of her father. I was trying to be strong for her....I did my best to do what I needed to do for her and her family. I attempted to stay in the moment, but all I could think about was I was never going to hear her voice again.

The thought was bittersweet. No, she wasn't ill to the point of death, but yes she was tired. She survived all of her 12 siblings, her husband, and her best friends. And although she had us, she was undoubtedly lonely.

So on one hand, I am sure she was happy to go. She did so peacefully. And on the other hand, I will miss her, even though our relationship wasn't what I may have wanted it to be. She loved me, and I loved her. We had a good understanding of one another, but not like a grandmother/grand-daughter relationship. She was a tough cookie, and like so many of the women on my mother and fathers side of the family, lacked an affectionate component.

It's pretty amazing because my mother is and my father was probably some of the most affectionate people that I know. Growing up, I saw that example and have taken it to another level. I am an uber affectionate person. I am comfortable with that now. It's who GOD has made me...a woman with a whole lot of love to give. It's a good thing that my parents have passed down to me. I declare that my husband and I will pass the same down to our children. It's a legacy that will be carried on for generations to come!!!

So, I don't have any new art work to share with you all this evening. I am getting back in the saddle and should have something to share in the next few days. And the journey continues....

Pearls of Wisdom:
A friend who is far away is sometimes much nearer than one who is at hand. Is not the mountain far more awe-inspiring and more clearly visible to one passing through the valley than to those who inhabit the mountain?
~Khalil Gibran

3 comments:

asummermoon said...

Thanks for sharing that piece with us. It is tough to lose a loved one and I will be praying for you and your family. My grandmom and I are very close, and I don't even want to think about her bot being around. Don't put too much pressure on yourself, but I know your artwork will surely have a new enlightened spirit because of your changes.

Laura Locke said...

I'm sorry for you loss. I encourage you to let your emotions out through your art. It is very cathartic and often yields the best work.

The Artist In Me said...

Thanks Lynn! I appreciate your prayers! I look forward to the new face of my work as well! Love you sis!

Thank you as well Laura! I plan to do exactly that...let my heart speak through my work. And I mean on more than just my Graham's passing! I plan on letting go of what others think and do what I know! Thank you for the encouragement!