Nana was big part of my childhood. I have such fond memories of family visits and cherished holidays in the cold Maine weather. When I was five, my family moved to North Carolina. I missed my grandmother so much. So, we began to exchange cards and letters. She always found time to pick up pen and paper and write encouraging, yet honest words of love, support, strength and compassion.
Remember the first time, as a child, when you received a letter or card?
I was 10 years old when this letter arrived
Debbie Dear,
I had just mailed an envelope to you when your letter came. You sounded so unhappy that I just had to sit down and answer you today. Sometimes it is good to sit down and write when you feel sad – so you write me anytime you want to talk to someone.
I know how you feel, sweetie, just plain tired of school, I used to be the same way and so did your mommy. Everyone in this world has problems from time to time.
The thing to do is, stick your chin up and go on and solve it. There is nothing in this world you can’t do if you want it badly enough. Worrying will not solve it….
You will have days when everything seems to go wrong but then you will have happy days that it the way it is for all of us. Remember who you are – a wonderful girl. Be yourself and don’t try to be like anyone else. We all love you just the way you are. Write me soon again, dear.
Lots of love, Nana
Those letters continued steadily for two more years. Knowing they would be in the mailbox was similar to Christmas morning anticipation. My Nana died at the young age of 57. She was, and forever will be, a messenger of love.
I still have a small stack of those cards and letters. Everyone once in a while they are pulled out of a small drawer in the antique desk she gave me when I was a little girl.
