Now for the reason why I'm so behind. Right before our trip to Louisiana I got a call from my sister telling me that Grandpa wasn't doing well. I had a sense that he wouldn't come out of this one. He's had a couple strokes before but this one took everything. I got the call that he had passed a few days later.
When I heard the news I tried to be happy that he was no longer feeling the pain of his mortal body, but I felt crushed. There was no emotion because I didn't know how to feel. I didn't cry until the funeral as I watched Grandma kiss him goodbye...and then it seemed like I couldn't stop. I couldn't stop remembering all the really great times we shared and how I was going to miss his hugs and his smile.
Before I left to Texas I went to visit Grandpa, he told me that there was a lot of missionary work to in Texas. He then asked me if I had any pass along cards. A few minutes later he came out of his office with a brand new stack of cards and told me to be brave. Grandpa was always teaching me something. I'm sad to report that I didn't hand one single card out, that stack is still sitting in my closet waiting for me to be brave. I made a copy of Grandpa's history before I left Utah to take with me. It made me so happy because I felt like I was taking a small piece of Grandpa with me. I devoured every last word when I returned home. Grandpa shared the gospel his entire life. That bravery must be somewhere inside of me because it was inside of him. I got up from my couch after finishing his history with a new goal to hand out those pass along cards.
Grandpa,
I may be late, but I'm going to be brave! You are still teaching me! During the last month I have learned a lot about the type of person I want to be. I can honestly say that I have a testimony of eternal families, and everyday I learn more about what it takes to be a member missionary.
I'm going to miss you. Till we meet again! I hope I make you proud.
I stole these pictures from my sister, because I didn't have the frame of mine to grab my camera. It's a good thing someone was thinking!
1 comment:
Em- I did the same thing. Absolutely devoured Grandpa's history when I went back up to Logan for a few days (Grandma's too, so cute!). He was such an incredible man. I knew that while he was living, but it's funny how hard it hits you when they go. He was one of the very best men that ever lived. Love him. It was good to see you and your sweet baby girl. XO
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