From the very beginning, In the quiet moments of life, you were teaching me lessons; lessons that would leave a lasting impression. Lessons taught not just in words, but in profound deeds.
When I was just one year old, you drove three thousand miles, round trip, to California to fetch me home where I belonged. You loved to tell the story that I was the best baby and I never made a sound the entire way. After having babies and grand babies of my own, I can tell you, that was love talking. You taught me sacrifice. You taught me love.
As I got older, I wanted to spend every available minute at your house! You would mow the grass so that I could make birds nest from the clippings. You would let me walk in front of you while tilling the garden letting me think I was doing it myself. You would let me stand on your feet between you and Nannie, dancing in the living room while listening to Lawrence Welk on Saturday nights. You taught me to play Yahtzee and poker while betting with matches. You placed hundreds of imaginary orders and ate hundreds of imaginary meals while you let me pretend to be a waitress at a restaurant. You taught me patience. You taught me love.
When I was a teenager, my life was difficult. You let me move into your home and allowed me to graduate High School. You were proud of me when I got a job and purchased a car on my own. You would start my car every morning in the winter so it would be warm for me on my way to work. You watched me get ready on my wedding day with tears in your eyes. You taught me selflessness. You taught me love.
The night I delivered my first baby, you were there at the hospital late at night waiting. I have a home video with your voice in the background. I could hear the pride in your voice when they brought him to the viewing window. I’m so glad I have that. You taught me dedication. You taught me love.
All throughout my life your actions showed me truths that would make me a better person. You taught me to listen, not just to hear, but to have empathy and be sincere. You showed me the value of a kind heart, how a gentle voice could get better results than the loudest yell. You taught me work ethic and how to take pride in a job well done. In your every action, you taught me love is always near. You taught me courage in facing fears, to persevere despite my tears. You taught me to cherish each passing day and to find joy in simple things. You taught me all the important things in life. You taught me love.
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