Six and a half hours of driving in the wrong direction. North instead of south. That’s what two of my cousins did to deliver a precious-to-me cargo. They had been visiting another of our cousins when she offered to give up some of the keepsake furniture from our grandmother. They knew I’d like to have some of Grandmother’s things so they decided to bring them to me. They could have just headed for home, but instead, they went the opposite direction of their route home and brought me some of our grandmother’s furniture for our new house. Unexpectedly, willingly, with smiles on their tired faces. They even waved jauntily as they left our place after their delivery, headed on their two-day journey home which had become much longer after detouring to our house.
Why would three of my cousins conspire to make me happy? I was humbled, a little embarrassed at their sacrifice and very touched. I was surprised at the emotion that jumped into my throat and eyes as I saw the familiar bench and mirror from my grandmother’s house where I had lived as a child. Whew! I hadn’t anticipated a strong reaction to these reminders of the past. I was transported in a millisecond to my grandmother’s entry where the bench and mirror had been. I had always sat there to take off my boots when I came inside on wet or snowy days. She had always been there when I came in. Now I felt her presence. I saw her in her wheelchair. So long away from this early home. So far away. I hadn’t been able to go back since I left when I was sixteen. So many homes since. Even other women who filled the role of grandmother since. But here was tangible evidence that I had roots. I haven’t felt rooted most of my life. Ten moves by college and another 25 or so (honestly, I’ve lost track) during married life have made me feel like a sojourner. I rarely look back. But these pieces demanded a look back. I can’t decide if I’m happy about that. I think I have to come to terms with a chaotic life and rest in the fact that God has been and still is in control. He’s in control of my little life, this big world, and the huge universe. Everything that came before and whatever lies ahead is in his kind hands. Thank you, Jesus.
For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” Hebrews 13:5
And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Jesus, Matthew 28:20
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” Jesus, John 14:27
“May he equip you with all you need for doing his will. May he produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to him. All glory to him forever and ever! Amen.” Hebrews 13:21
How sweet of your cousins! Beautiful bench! Good to see the house is coming along. Think of you and Jack often. Love, Susan
Miss you guys! So proud of Katy for writing her blog! Hugs.
Every single word resonated in me. So happy for you to get such treasured keepsakes. Much love, Lisa
Sweet friend, thanks for the kind comments. You, too, enjoy antiques and have made your home lovely with them. Hugs.
What a touching and beautiful story, Lorelei. I know the furniture will bring you pleasure. Would love to know more. Why had you not been back at all?
Ah, that’s another story. After my mother died, I moved to Lancaster, as you know, where I made you as a lifetime friend. Shortly after my departure, my grandmother fell with no one to find her for several days. She went to a nursing home and never returned to her home because she died shortly thereafter. I visited her in the nursing home, but never again went to her house. The house was sold and the things divided among the siblings. Thanks for caring! Love you!
Beloved cousin if you were on the moon we would of brought them to you
You’re so kind! I sure feel loved. Thank you for your good-natured generosity.
Spoken like a the true areo-space engineer that you are!
I just opened my email…. Guess I procrastinate to the end with this…. I am sitting here with a huge lump in my throat and a heart filled with love for Jesus and for you… You, My Dear Friend, are one of God’s most precious treasures. You bless all who are fortunate to meet you. Love you….
Kind Friend, I say the same thing about you! You are a precious treasure who blesses all you meet! Thankful for your example to me of having a heart for others and showing it by serving them without fanfare. Hugs.