Monday, September 10, 2007

happy birthday g'ma rita

There's no other way to start this day than to pay tribute to a woman who taught me acceptance of others no matter where they come from or what they did, strength where others would fall apart with fear, and faith when most would become faithless. My Grandma Rita was such an inspiration for the many, many people she touched with her boundless love and heartfelt laugh. Days like today, when I'm sad, how I'd love a monster cookie and a good chat with my Grandma- she knew what to say, how to say it, and how to inspire me to stand up tall and face my fears. She also knew just how to teach me (at the young dumb age of 17) why writing a check for more than my account balance was maybe, possibly, not the best of ideas. I didn't fully realize at the time how fortunate I was to spend those years living under her roof, or how much it would come to mean to me that she was at my wedding, the only grandchild she would be able to see stand at the altar. That breaks my heart, because if there's anything she would have enjoyed, it's the upcoming weddings of Michelle and Brittany and all of those to follow. I love you, Grandma. Deep in my heart I know you're up there watching over the angels I miss so very much, your great grandchildren there with you and your parents and the circle of friends I know without a doubt you've gathered around you.

This is the only picture of Grandma I can find, taken at my wedding in June 2004
You are loved, Grandma:



I thought I'd share something that touches me right now. A song that I once listened to unaware of how it would someday speak to my heart.

(Coldplay, Fix You)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRUkGDGbJpk

When you try your best, but you don't succeed

When you get what you want, but not what you need

When you feel so tired, but you can't sleep

Stuck in reverse

When the tears come streaming down your face

When you lose something you can't replace

When you love someone, but it goes to waste

Could it be worse?

Lights will guide you home

And ignite your bones

And I will try to fix you

High up above or down below

When you're too in love to let it go

If you never try you'll never know

Just what you're worth

Lights will guide you home

And ignite your bones

And I will try to fix you

Tears stream down your face

When you lose something you cannot replace

Tears stream down your face

And I...

Tears stream down on your face

I promise you I will learn from the mistakes

Tears stream down your face

And I...

Lights will guide you home

And ignite your bones

And I will try to fix you

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