Jimbo's Jots

The only grandfather I knew growing up was my mom’s dad. My dad’s dad, Poppy, as everyone called him, died long before I was born. But I have great memories of Grandad – that’s what we all called him.

He was a farmer in rural Arkansas. The house that I knew was Grandad and Grandma’s house was in Tupelo – about 20 miles outside of Newport and 10 miles to McCrory. I remember walks with Grandad to check the mail at the post office, which was in the front of Oscar’s store. My aunt was the “postmaster” for the small town. Most days, if you went to get the mail, Grandad would buy you a pop.

Several years ago, I was counseling a young man 8 years old whose grandfather has just died. He was having a hard time adjusting to life without grandpa. They were best buds! So, when we had our sessions, we talked a lot about grandpa.

I asked him to draw me a picture of his favorite memory of his grandpa. While he did that, I decided to draw a picture of my grandad working in his garden. We then took turns talking about what we drew and what made the memory so special. I remember long before Grandad’s health was failing because of cancer, he would work in the garden. To be honest, I don’t remember what my client drew. But I have that picture of Grandad in my office. And I have great memories of times enjoyed with family at Grandma and Grandad’s.

We all have had someone very special die at some point in our lives. What memories do you have of that person that make you smile? What would you want to share with someone else about that person?

Paul writes, “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.” (Philippians 1:3). Take some time to draw a memory of someone who has died and find someone to share that memory with. And thank God for having that joyous remembrance!

Be blessed and be a blessing!