Sunday, January 18, 2009

Grandfathers


My grandfather passed away on Friday evening. He had been ill for several years and entered the hospital earlier this week. On Friday we received the call that it was time to gather by his bedside. We were able to be around him as he took his final breath. I do not know for sure if he knew we were there but in my heart I believe he did. My other grandfather passed away when I was 8 years old. I do feel badly that neither will be able to see my daughter but I know they will see her from a different perspective from up above.


I do not like to go into heavy topics on this blog as I believe it is more for enjoyment and sharing of my creative and home journey but I do want to just take a moment to pay tribute. Without going into "more info than we needed" mode I will say that the relationship with my grandfather and most of my father's side of the family is strained. Even through this, I did know that my grandfather loved me and my sister with all of his heart. I do have fond memories from my childhood and I will carry these forward and these are the memories I will choose to share with my daughter.


Several years ago I made the conscious decision to let go of the negativity I was holding and to forgive. I am happy I made this decision for I can truly say that I have no regrets. I am content to know that we were with him in his final moments as he crossed to the Lord's arms. I do hope he has found peace.


19 comments:

The Other Side of Me said...

Hi Karla,

I am very sorry for the loss of your Grandfather. Remembering him in the best of times and forgetting the rest is the way to Peace for both of you!
Prayers to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Tammy

Ele at abitofpinkheaven said...

I'm sorry for your loss. I know that being with your grandfather was a comfort to him. This is a beautiful story of forgiveness that will inspire many. Hold on to your memories for you and your daughter. Blessings to you.

Free Art Printables said...

I am very sorry for your loss, my thought are with you.

Lorrie said...

I'm sorry about the loss of your grandfather. I hope you will have sweet memories of good times, and how wonderful to know that he is with the Lord.

Lorrie

Patti said...

Karla~ I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Losing someone is never easy no matter what the relationship is. It is good you were there... not only did that birng peace to your grandfather, I am sure that has brought peace to you as well. In the end there is only love.
Thinking of you~

Patti

Kerryanne @ Shabby Art Boutique said...

Oh sweetie, what a horrid weekend for you. I think you have a very healthy attitude to negativity and forgiveness and now you can enjoy your memories of your grandfather.

Hope you are feeling okay.
Hugs,
Kerryanne

Anonymous said...

So sorry Karla, you & your family are in my prayers. You are leaving a legacy of forgiveness for your daughter, what a precious gift. God bless, Laura

{oc cottage} said...

Beautifully inspiring!

M ^..^

Grace said...

So sorry Karla for the loss of your Grandfather. We learn from our parents and grandparents on how we choose to create our own memories. Letting go is the best thing even though it is the hardest! Hugs Grace

Cindy Is Crafty said...

Karla,
So sorry to hear about your family's loss.

Heather ~Pretty Petals said...

Karla... I am so sorry about your Grandfather. I am sure it was comforting to know that everyone was there with him when he passed... and for you I am glad that you were able to let go of the negativity and remember the good memories.

xoxo Heather

Anonymous said...

Karla, I'm so sorry about the loss of your grandfather. Forgiveness is so difficult, but I'm glad that you've chosen to let go and focus on his love for you. Blessings to you!

Cape Cod Rambling Rose said...

Hello Karla,

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers go out to you and your family.

My grandmother passed away before my youngest child was born, yet in my heart, I know she's aware of his presence in my life... and as you said in your post, those who have gone on can see family from a different perspective from above. =)

Anonymous said...

Hi Sugar Bear,

Our Grandpa is now at peace.

Love ya,
Shelley

Kim Caldwell said...

I am thinking of you Karla. You have such beautiful words and thoughts. Sending you hugs. . .

Kim

Jenn said...

Karla,
I'm so sorry to hear of your grandfather's passing, that is so tough. I hope that having been there and forgiven the past gives you peace. Bless you~

roseroomnz.com said...

I am so sorry Karla, may he rest in peace. Rachaelxo

Merci-Notes said...

I am sorry for your loss but I am happy for your the knowledge that you have gained.
Perhaps photos around will help fill the gap for your daughter? My grandpa Marks was able to hold my daughter, saying that he thinks it is much harder today for families. My Grandma Fraser had over 50 grandchildren and a number of great grand children before she passed in her sleep.
I am glad that your moms and dads are around. My dad did get to know that he had his first grandson! A big thing since he had a son and 5 daughters! We still have more women but there are 3 grandsons!
So, surround your new family with love :)
Hugs,
Mary

Sonia said...

I'm sorry to hear about your grandfather Karla. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sonia

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