Monday, May 12, 2008

Grandpa

Thank you for the comments everyone. It's not a sad thing to go at 97. My only concern is Grandma being alone. He was ready. We don't know when the service is yet but I'll likely be gone for a few days.

What I really wanted to share here and forgot to post yesterday was this.

When I 'came out' at 16 the most dreaded 'talk' I had to prep myself for was telling my grandparents. When I did he looked me squarely in the eye and said: "Well, don't hide it and don't flaunt it"

Pretty cool huh ?

Going home will literally take me back to Waconda Road as my parents grew up in the same small town. Waconda Road being my father's families farm. If I can con a camera out of someone here I'll have some pics for you when I get home.

22 comments:

Summer said...

I love what he said to you. How cool is that? His age. His generation. I love your family. And you.

Golden To Silver Val said...

Such sage advice, bless his heart. Take strength in the fact that all of us are with you and feel your sorrow. Visit grandma often now. Love, Val

Jay said...

"Well, don't hide it and don't flaunt it"

Outstanding advice for anyone.

Moohaa said...

What a blessing he was to your life. To show such support and yes, give great advice, is something to be treasured.
God bless you and your grandma. You are in my heart and prayers as you go through this journey.

Mama Llama said...

I think I would have enjoyed meeting your grandfather! Thanks for letting him touch our lives as well with that gem of advice!

Be well, Brad.

SOUL said...

so many don't understand...
you were very lucky to have him.
but you already know that.
you handsome thing you!
:))

Cheryl said...

You'll be going back home, huh? You must have so many memories, especially now. What a great Grandpa you had. Can you tell us about your grandmother?

CRUSTY MOM-E said...

Now that is the perfect example of a relative loving their younger generations unconditionally. I wish all elders could care the gratitude and knowledge that your dear Grandpa did.

I hope Grandma is okay...he's been her whole life..that is heartbreaking.

Safe journey and many hugs brad!!
Xo,
Elizabeth

Hope4Grace said...

What a wonderful man, his influence and compassion is in you!

Safe trip!!!!

Grit said...

there is never a right time for changes to a family like this. 97 is a great age. safe journey.

meno said...

That is excellent advice in many circumstances. I wish more people heeded it.

Happyone said...

What a great and wise man.
Have a safe trip.

southernfemme said...

Long time lurker here...

Peace to you and your family.

Have a safe journey home.

Leann said...

Very cool!! You and yours will be in my thoughts and prayers as you go thru this journey.

CRUSTY MOM-E said...

Be safe, we already miss you!
I love your last paragraph..just beautiful!
Always,
Elizabeth

Mary said...

Grandpa's advice is perfect. He was a wonderful man. How old is your Grandma? I know she'll be lonesome - I pray she finds peace and contentment here on earth while she waits to join him.

I wondered where "Waconda Road" originated. It paints a beautiful picture - even more so now.

C.C. said...

That's quite a Grandpa you had there! Hugs to you and your family, Brad. Safe travels.

Jules said...

Just popped by to say hi after you left a message on my blog. So sorry to hear about your Grandpa, he sounds like quite a man.
Take Care

bonnie said...

Wow. What a wonderful human being was grandpa. So much integrity, strong and true. I will celebrate his life today.

Moohaa said...

Hey sweet... just want you to know I'm thinking about you.

Gin said...

Brad, that brought tears to my eyes. I know it must be really tough to come out to your family. Your Grandpa rocked! What great advice to give you. He must have really been something!

{{{Brad}}}

fiwa said...

What a good man. That says a lot about him that he was so accepting of you. 97 is amazing. How old is your grandma? I know you said she's in better health - I hope she's doing ok.