I just returned from officiating my Grandmother's funeral. This occasion was a true celebration of a remarkable woman who lived her life with a sharp wit, grace, humility and elegance. She had a vast reputation for being an impeccable housekeeper, a "mean" cook, and a botanist that would rival any Ph.D.
On our way home from the service, my youngest daughter exclaimed: "I didn't know her name was Geraldine?!"
I asked: "Her name was Geraldine?!!"
We called her Nana, and I remember when I found out there were other Nanas. I was insulted by their audacity to proclaim to have such a sacred name. There was only one Nana in this world and she belonged to me.
I was her favorite grandchild. I knew things that my siblings and cousins did not. She kept a key hidden in her garage (only I knew about it) just for me so that when I needed a place to stay, day or night, I simply unlocked the door and my room was ready.There was always money in her jewelry box (again, just for me) if ever there was an emergency (or if I just wanted it). I asked the large gathering of people at her funeral if they knew about the key or the money in the jewelry box. Almost every person present raised their hand. During the reception afterward I must have met at least 10 "other" Nanas (I call them the "fake Nanas"), as well as MeMes, MeMas, and other versions of grandmotherly names.
I could go on and on, but I just wanted to say how much I love her and will miss her. I also want to say that in so many ways her love for me was very much a Godly love -- unconditional, special, always making me feel as if I really am the favorite child. I know everyone who knew her thought the same -- they were her favorite as well.
I hope all of you reading this have had a "Nana" in your life at some point. These special people are to be remembered and celebrated. If you have, then you have certainly received a true blessing from God.
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Editor's note: John Gibson is the pastor of Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church, Pea Ridge. He can be contacted through this newspaper at [email protected].
Religion on 02/05/2014