Our kids were given a gift that will only grow more precious to them as the years go on.
"Mamaw and Papaw" wrote the book on grandparenting. Our children still remember how their excitement and anticipation would build knowing that Mamaw and Papaw were coming to visit. Minutes seemed like hours as the kids awaited their arrival. When they finally pulled into the drive it was like the start of the Kentucky Derby. The kids burst out of the door, raced to Mamaw and Papaw, and the celebration was on!
Of course there were all those gifts that grandparents are famous for. But, it was much, much more. Mamaw and Papaw became part of their lives. They gave far more than gifts, clothes, toys, fun activities, parties...They gave something money cannot buy. They gave something that kids soak up like a sponge and can't get enough of. They gave love. They gave the gift of presence.
In 2002 and 2003, over a short 18 month period, we sadly watched Mamaw and Papaw both succumb to cancer. It's been nearly 4 years since Papaw died and almost 6 for Mamaw. While we miss them terribly, their legacy of love still lives on.
In December 2003, it was clear that Papaw would soon pass away. We loaded up the family to visit him one final time and to say good-bye. Man was that hard. But it was also precious. He told the kids about his faith and how he was not afraid of dying. He spoke of heaven and wondered what it would be like. He told the children that he and Mamaw had given them their love and that they will always have that with them. He told them he was now going to heaven to be with Jesus and to be reunited with Mamaw. He encouraged the kids to take that love and to pass it along to others as well.
His life taught us how to live and love. His death taught us how to believe and hope.
Jack and Alberta Wallace lived their lives in service to God and Country. As a young man Jack joined the Navy and while stationed in San Diego, California came to faith in Jesus Christ through a new ministry founded by Dawson Trotman called "The Navigators." After serving four years, Jack and Alberta set out for Seminary. God led him back into the military where Jack served as a chaplain in the US Army, retiring as a Lt. Colonel. He then served 12 more years as a United Methodist pastor and dedicated husband, father, and Papaw. And Alberta served as the ever-loving wife, mother, and Mamaw.
The Scriptures say, "And now dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died, so you will not grieve like people who have no hope." (I Thes. 4:3 NLT). Moments of grief still come rolling into our lives from time to time. In those moments I personally reflect on how much richer my life has become and the many lessons about faith, patience, family, and love. And I think about the importance of presence. While we miss them terribly today, as believers we have the great hope of being reunited with them in heaven.
So, for now it is a time of remembrance. But, it's also a time of anticipation. It's waiting by the front door for what seems like forever...
But, one day, the build up of excitement will burst forth in that blessed moment when our hope is realized.
The gift of their presence will be restored and the celebration will be in full swing.
What a celebration that will be.
Stephanie with Papaw, Michael with Mamaw, Kimberly with Papaw, Katie with Mamaw
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