Granny.

Granny was a special grandmother; but few knew she was such a soul soother. Most saw her as an old woman struggling along and sometimes needing help. They knew she was a mother of many. Many more than just her own birth children, as a lot of people cared for her and looked to her for wisdom and guidance. They rarely realized the huge impact she made on their children.

She would occasionally take one of her grandchildren for a week or two. Spoiling them with attention. Teaching them through stories. Guiding them spiritually when required. She was always loving, kind, gentle and patient. However, she could discipline when it was needed and rarely let the child get away with anything.

Granny would make sure prayers were said, faces were washed and pajamas were on. Then she would tuck them into a nice clean bed, with fresh sheets that were hung out on a line to dry. The odor of the fresh air permeated the bed and made the child feel like God was hugging her. Sometimes, Granny would sit on the edge of the bed and talk for a while sharing her wisdom or just listening to the child's troubles. The most peaceful sleep, with the most soothing and calming dreams would follow.

The child would rarely try to get away with something. The child did this not out of fear; but, out of awe and respect. When the child did try and got caught she never balked against the punishment. Granny never had to use physical discipline and never needed to raise her voice. The child willing took any "punishment" as they knew it was deserved and did not want to hurt Granny in any way. Granny always followed "punishment" with discussion and guidance. She would allow the child a chance to speak and find the forgiveness within themselves, as God had intended.

Sundays with Granny meant a trip to church. Granny understood sitting and listening could be a bit difficult for the child and talked before hand of the importance of any rituals or speeches that might be seen or heard. After church, granny would take the child for a walk and talk about what was meant by the events in the church. If the child was patient in church and attentive to Granny's talk, she would often "treat" the child to a soda or ice cream. All this just made the child love Granny more, respect her stronger and want to spend as much time as possible around her.
Granny was much more than a grandmother because of how she made the child feel. Special:D

Dedicate to my Granny Alice Baird who is with God and will meet me there!