A Letter to My Grandmother

In the Death and Dying class that I am taking this summer, we are required to construct a 'goodbye' letter. It could be from ourselves, as if we are dying. Or it could be to someone who has died or gone away for any reason. I chose to write to my grandmother Marie Bean, who died this past December. Here is the letter that I wrote to her, along with the questions we had to answer after writing.


Dear Mamaw,

It's been nearly six months since you left us all. The day after Christmas, two days after having your home filled with your own decendents. Your beloved family. I knew in my heart when I said goodbye to you on Christmas Eve and kissed your soft cheek, that it was our last goodbye. I am thankful, so thankful, that I had that opportunity, to tell you that I loved you. But there are a few things that I never told you; you were an inspiration to me as a mother. You raised twelve children in relative poverty, most important, they are all good, honest, caring people today. That is a testament to your mothering.
I remember as a little girl coming to your house, playing in the yard, under the blue hydrangea hush. I remember the hollyhocks and Iris's which I have some of growing in my own garden today. I remember your quiet, unassuming presence, you were always there, ready to help and talk. I remember the biscuits you always had left over on the back of the stove. How I loved your cold biscuits. I got my love of search-a-word puzzles from you. I admire the no nonsense woman that you were. There was no complaining, at least not in front of us. You just did what you had to do. You were a strong woman. I have been told that I am like you in that way. I consider it a great compliment. I love you, Mamaw. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you.


Your granddaughter,
Jennifer

A. What were your feelings? I felt somewhat sad, but also I felt like I was able to tell her the things that I never had. It was satisfying.
B. How do you think those who read your letter, if it had been real, might have reacted? I think if she could have read it, she would have been touched and hugged me, told me of her love for me. But she was never a great demonstrative person.
C. Did you reveal anything unique about yourself? No, I don't think so.
D. Were you able to choose your words carefully enough in order to stay within a 3-page limit?
Yes.
E. What other observations did you note while completing this activity? I have healed well at this point.