In Memory of Ruth Smudz

1:28 PM Edit This 6 Comments »
Words I spoke at her service on January 16, 2006:

"So loving. So caring. Full of heart and very generous - those words just scratch the surface to describe my grandmother. It's not easy to say goodbye to this woman who is second only to my mothers as the most important female in my life.

If my Grandmother was here among us today, she'd greet me the way she did every time I came to her home by telling me how beautiful she sees me. She'd tell me how happy she is that I have David my husband in my life, and she'd lean over to tell you that he and I are together because of her - which is so true. If my Grandmother was here, I'd ask her how she is and she'd complain about her arthritis, yet in the next breath, she'd brag about how smart her great-granddaughter (age 2.5) Naomi is. If my Grandmother was here, she'd beam about how nice it is to have her son Jim back in town again, and she'd let us know how much she misses my sister and I living in NY - and with a kiss on the cheek she'd tell me she'll try to get up there to visit soon. If my Grandmother was here, I'd find a seat next to her and hold her hand, and I'd kick myself that I'd never seem to get enough quality time with her anymore. I'm sure if my Grandma was here, eventually she'd make a reference to Grandpa B., as we know her love for him is still so strong (30 years after his death).

If Grandma as here, if only she was here, I'd tell her I appreciate that her mission in life was to just love her children, grandchildren, and her darling great-grandchildren: Scotty, Jocelyn and Naomi. If Grandma was here, I'd let her know that I really did learn from her examples, such as money-management and living within your means. If Grandma was here, I'd tell her Thank You for fostering the close relationship between myself, my sister, and our cousin, Scott.

Her whole mission in life was to care, love, and provide us with the best life. She was not a religious person, yet what is more beautiful or spiritual than pure unconditional love?

Grandma, you are here. God Bless, and I love you. Thank you, thank you so much for everything."

6 Share your thouughts:

Patrizzia said...

This is so beautiful JA! I have tears in my eyes. Wonderful tribute to her! As you said before, you now have your angel in heaven to help you here on earth.

Maryfrances Fabbri said...

God bless JA.

Nikki said...

Beautiful...

Lesley said...

Beautiful JA!

Anonymous said...

JA really beautiful great tribute.

Hi my name is Marjorie said...

Wonderful JA...