August 21, 2013 - Family Stories

I spent about 2.5 hours in the car with my Grandma Ross this morning, as I took her home on my way to a site visit for work.  Despite the fact that it was about 3:45am when I picked her up at my parents, she was ready to talk. 
I learned about her parents.  I learned about my grandfather's parents.  I learned about the first wife of my grandfather.  I learned about the death of her mother.  I learned about how her siblings took care of her until she married my grandfather.  I learned about her childhood.  She talked a lot, I listened. 
I don't know if I just didn't pay attention or just had never been told, but today I learned that my grandma had not graduated from high school.  Her mother died when she was 16 and her father left her to live with siblings.  My grandma was a high school dropout.  I think that, had I known this years ago, I might have passed some judgement on her.  Today, I realized that she had accomplished much in the face of not having a diploma or GED.  She was not any less of a person because of the revelation, and I think I actually admire her more now that I know this fact.  I realize, as an adult who works in the field of education, how hard it is for people in her situation to make it.  She made wise decisions and tried to live a Godly life, which is why her path was easier than many in her situation.  She worked hard and had her priorities in order.  While I do not agree with everything my grandma says or thinks, I admire her and now understand why she was so proud of all of her grandchildren as we graduated from high school, college, and grad school.