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She and her family lived in a sod hut in the dirty ’30s. Like all her siblings, she completed the 8th grade but wasn’t able to finish high school because she had to work to help support the family. Before and after she married, she cared for ailing family members while working two, sometimes three jobs. She miscarried a few babies but finally gave birth to my mom…3 ½ months early…at home…in 1938. It’s by the grace of God they both lived. She was widowed at 48 and left with a young son to raise on a tight budget.
I say all this to give you an idea of “a hard life.” Many of you could share your story of hardship and struggle too. Occasionally, I would ask her if she was mad about some of the stuff in her life and if she wished it would have been easier? She would say something like, “Sure, but where did you get the idea life is supposed to be easy?” “This is life.” Or, “Think how much I would have missed out on if life was easy, kid.” She would smirk and give a wink. Another classic response was, “Remember, no matter how hard your life seems, someone always has it harder.” I’m not implying she never complained or let off steam. She could be pretty snarky when she felt it was necessary. Grandma knew heartache and frustration, she knew “a hard life,” but above all, she knew Jesus. She lived in His peace and promises and knew this life and her heartache were temporary.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
The day she died many of our family members were with her. Up to this point, I was afraid of death and dying. I was over her bed sobbing, telling her I didn’t want her to go. She smiled and said, “Don’t be sad. I’m ready. I get to see The Lord and Leopold (her husband) today. You’ll be ok, you’ll be all right.”
I want to be more like Grandma Ida. She lived life as it came to her – trusting, open, and accepting, putting things in their proper place – Jesus’ hands. And as for my little pity party a couple of days ago? I’m clearly still working on it. (smirk, wink)
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27
Peace,
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