We all know and love our father and mother
but do we really know and appreciate their mother,
for if it wasn’t for their mother, it’s very clear
our parents and us would not be here.
A grandmother is the glue that holds the family together
especially, under hardship and stormy bad weather.
A grandmother is the head of the tribe
she sets the tone and the vibe.
She knows when to be strong and fight
or be polite and keep quiet,
when to give and sacrifice
and when to be loving, graceful or nice.
Gathering years of experience at her age
she’ll lend you her ear or advise you as a sage.
When you look at her black and white photo, she’s the one
who transports you to days bygone.
She’s a sweet memory of an old tune or a song
that reminds you that family ties must be strong.
She’s memories of holidays with families that gather
at dinner parties filled with fun and laughter.
She’s a smell of homemade cooked food
that means comfort and everything that’s good.
Nothing makes her proud to see her family grow and thrive
and being involved in their daily lives.
I know grandmothers come in all shapes and sizes
indicative of her time, mine wasn’t big on words, no big surprises.
My Grandmother Esther was petite, funny, pretty, smart and busy all the time
far from being perfect, yet she was mine.
Grandmother is a picture of love and family traditions
that are passed throughout the generations.
A special woman, like no other
that is a GRANDMOTHER.
Dedicated to my Grandmother Esther of blessed memory.
Editor’s note: Both poem and artwork are on display at the Santa Clarita City Hall First Floor Gallery, located at 23920 Valencia Blvd., Valencia. Exhibit runs through November 10.
