Vida Maude Single Belbin
My earliest memory is of my grandmother, Vida, whom we all called Nan. When I was just a toddler she would whisper hymns while rocking me to sleep. It is my first memory of this feeling we call peace. Nan lived simply, loved deeply and had an unshakable faith despite all the incredibly hard times her generation faced with honor and grace. I don't think I ever heard her utter a harsh word and from what I experienced she always put the best interests of others above her own. She passed away after battling pancreatic cancer when I was in high school. I was fortunate enough to have her live with us before she entered palliative care. Her resiliency never wavered and she actually apologized to me for having to leave us so soon. Whenever I need to find strength, peace and understanding through faith I think of her. She remains my guide. Thank you Nan.
@paula That's a truly heart-warming story and I'm glad to read it and so sorry she lost her battle with pancreatic cancer, an awful illness. I look to my grandfather, personally, who was at Pearl Harbor and battled so much in his life until he passed away at age 94, a week after he was sawing logs in his back yard. He lived life until the literal end, and he usually did it with too little to make it exactly the way he wanted and yet he was still grateful for it all. I try to live up to the things he taught me even though he's gone now I always ask, "would granddad get upset or this or is it not really that bad?" Keep on keepin' on, DPM
@danielpmalito We truly are fortunate to have had these influences in our lives. I think if your Grandad could speak to you now he'd tell you how proud he is of you. They lived large and in charge, didn't they? Taking nothing for granted and grateful for every single breath. Oh my. Sending virtual hugs.
@paula It's like you knew him - he would say that I think and he did live large and in charge - the most confident and unapologetic person I ever knew! V-hugs back!! 😀 Keep on keepin' on, DPM
@paula, My grandma also used to sing to me and rock in a rocking chair while I was little. She unfortunately passed away when I was a teenager. She was the only grandparent still alive when I was born. Just recently, I had a dream going to her house which I haven't seen in decades and then double checked with my sister about the layout/appearance of the rooms and it was spot on. I miss my grandma and I'm sure you feel the same and think of your nan often.
