The Value of Passing Memories
The Power of Storytelling
My grandmother talked so comfortably about her parents that I lost sight that they no longer inhabited the earth realm. It felt as though they just lived in another state. Well, I guess they did live in another state–of consciousness. I recognized that my Great-Granddaddy Willie was a man ahead of his time. He didn’t succumb to societal limitations regarding gender equality. My grandmother tells of the time her daddy told her, with pain in his eyes, that he couldn’t send her to college because he didn’t have the funds to send her and her sister. This news really disappointed my grandmother, but she had to accept it. All these years later, when I heard this story, I beamed with pride. Just the thought of it–my Great-Granddaddy Willie actually considered letting girls attend college. When most young ladies groomed for marriage and motherhood, my grandmother had other options to consider. I so enjoyed hearing my grandmother share her stories. Knowing that my great-grandfather desired to allow my grandmother to attend college, I also appreciate that he valued his daughter. In an era when educating women was considered a waste of money, Great-Granddaddy Willie didn’t think it a waste to redirect funds towards his daughters’ higher learning. He did, however, build them houses. My grandmother conducted herself with dignity. I never heard her resign herself to the views of others. She embedded this same confidence into my mom and aunts. They, too, possess such sure-footed confidence. Had it not been for the passing down and sharing of family stories that inspire, I wouldn’t walk with the self-confidence I value. In Viola Davis’ voice from The Help, my mom made me believe, “You is kind. You is smart. You is important.” My mom did for me what her mom did for her what her dad did for her, and I’m sure his parents did for him. The story continues. I share stories with my grandchildren about my grandparents and great-grandparents, hoping that our generations live on and remember the generations that came before them through our memories and storytelling.
Thank you for sharing this story. I’ve heard of the story regarding Granny’s desire to go to college; however, knowing it was Great-Grandfather’s Willie’s desire, too, makes me see it differently. Personally, I know it’s when someone having the hope for me to have something they desired, it makes me more grateful when I receive it. Please keep sharing stories like this. I have really enjoyed reading.
Some may not know that mama and aunt Beck started school at the same time, although mama was older. She and aunt Beck were so close that when it came time for mama to start school aunt Beck cried much that that mama was kept home until aunt Beck could attend school, When they both graduated at the same time grand daddy couldn’t send both of them to college. This is what mama told me. They both came to California, and the rest is history.
My dear sweet niece, Lisa. I so enjoyed traveling back through time, as you shared the desires of my mother’s heart as a young woman, journeying through her life. You are so right about keeping the memory of our loved ones current and fresh, as they remain alive in our hearts. Thank you so much.
I had a great time reminiscing. I’m thankful that you enjoyed this blog.