Upon my 88-year-old grandmother's death, my 88-year-old grandfather was welcomed to live with us. For the next seven years--from 1975 through 1982, my life was enriched by a gentle storyteller. I knew my grandfather as Ray. We all did. "I am too young to be called Grandpa," Ray said.
In younger days, he had a hot temper. I knew a man, who was filled with many prejudices. Yet, Ray was a gentle man during my lifetime of knowing him.
Until the day I die, I pray I may live up to what Ray said to me--to us.
"When I die, don't be sad.
"I have made amends with everyone I had differences with."
Ray's words--Ray's inheritance to me--has been a guiding light in my life.
If I make amends with everyone I have had differences, I will have lived fully.
Thank you, Mom and Dad. Thank you, Ray.
You planted the seedlings of care-giving in my life.
