If you’ve ever experienced the loss of a loved one, and most of us have, you understand the empty hole in your heart and life that is left when they are gone. Our lives continue on; there is still work, bills, family, and all of the other things we must maintain in our everyday lives, but that special person is no longer a part of it.
Maybe it was a person you saw every day, or perhaps you had a long-distance relationship and only saw them on holidays. It doesn’t really matter. You always carried that person with you, knowing that they were there on earth, loving you and caring for you, and now they are gone.
This feeling of loss can be especially true for grandparents. Grandparents are often the earliest people in our lives except for our parents. Because, for the most part, they don’t carry the heavy responsibility of raising us, it gives them the freedom to love us, spoil us, and become a safe place to land. Both of my grandmothers were huge influences in my life, each in different ways. I was lucky enough to live close to both of them and spend time with them on a regular basis. I spent summers and holidays with one or the other, and my maternal grandmother inspired my love of reading and writing that is the driving force in my life. When she passed, I was filled with emptiness. But, she left after years of memories, photos, books, and of course, love.
A grandfather who knew he was near passing left behind a tangible gift for his family that they could keep with him. This pillow, made from one of his shirts and a special message, is a wonderful reminder of a grandfather’s unconditional love. He tried his best to always be there for his family, despite the fact that physically, he may be no more.
There is a very special place in our hearts for our grandparents. In a way, they are our first friends. They teach us the fun ways of life and are always up for an adventure. Grandparents know how to make us laugh and know what helps us feel better on a rough day. Best of all, you always know where to find gran and gramps, regardless of how old you get, and how far away you move. Grandma’s house will always be where you left it.
Please like and share this beautiful idea of a gift from one grandpa to his family!
