The Why behind the What
She was maybe the sweetest woman I've ever encountered.
And, somehow the universe saw fit to allow such an intimate relationship between us.
I like to think that my parents had exceptional wisdom when I was a child and had the foresight to know that the countless time I'd spend with my grandmother would groom me to become the woman I am today. I sometimes wonder if they had an inkling that my granny was developing attributes that would drive me to positively impact the world around me. Those things that I complained about & questioned as a child now hold a fond place in my heart and make perfect sense.
Like, how my grandmother's car served as an unofficial "church van". Because quite simply, people needed a ride to church, and she had the means to get them there. Or, the many hospital visits, food deliveries to the sick & shut ins, and funerals we attended together (no child should have to attend that many funerals!). But OK, point taken-we need to compassionately be there for people who are in need. And perhaps the most cherished lesson I took away from my granny's role in my life is how to be kind without cause.
“This is my simple religion. No need for temples. No need for complicated philosophy. Your own mind, your own heart is the temple. Your philosophy is simple kindness.”
-14th Dalai Lama