Grandma's




	WRITE 2 THE HEART Stories that are aimed "Write 2 the Heart" March 2, 2004 Cheryl Speir, Editor, moderator@write2theheart.com ----------------------------------------------------------- Welcome to your latest issue of "Write 2 the Heart." You are receiving this newsletter because you requested a subscription or a friend generously forwarded their copy to you. ------------------------------------------------------------ David’s grandma loved her roses. She always said that one day all of the varieties would bloom at once; and they did. ------------------------------------------------------------ All new subscribers will receive a free downloadable copy of the e-cookbook, “Write 2 the Heart of the Chocolate Lover.” To subscribe send a blank e-mail to: subscribe@write2theheart.com ------------------------------------------------------------- Grandma’s Roses By David Barber ------------------------------------------------------------ Grandma loved roses. Every part of her yard was covered with them, every kind and size, perfuming the south Texas air with their fragrances. She cared for each one like as a small child, cupping her hands around the blossoms and cuddling up to them, talking with them. She would always comment how delightful it would be for all of them to be in bloom at once, but with 8 children, there just wasn’t time. The house always needed cleaning and Paul needed help with this, Leonard with that – it took so many hours to tend a family that large, so much love. But she had plenty, not just for her family but also for others in need. She would say “God will provide what we need” and she meant it. They weren’t well off by any means. She depended on God to take care of her and she shared that with others in her quiet and gentle way. This New Orleans’s bred lady never turned anyone down. When the homeless came during the rough times, she was there, to feed them, care for them and provide clothing, just like the roses. In a sense, the roses were a reflection of her character. She was known throughout the community for her roses and her kindness. After we were all grown, Grandma had more time for her garden. We’d drive out to visit and see her in her apron, toiling among the buds and blooms. She’d always say “One day, all my roses will bloom!” Then, she shoo us inside and fix plates of sweet cakes for everyone, hurrying around the table until we were all taken care of. She was never caught off guard. Suddenly, one year Grandma slowed down. Her stride wasn’t as fast. She sat in the garden to tend now. When she took sick, the roses showed the illness too. They hung their canes and looked sad as the weeks went on and on. The family had to fend for themselves and it was a difficult adjustment. There were plenty of hands. But the house was never as clean. The years had taken their toil and energy out of her and illness got the better of her. We sadly made the long trip to her city on a sunny, spring day and cried that morning at the funeral, then returned to the house to visit with family. As we pulled into the gravel driveway, we burst into tears. All Grandmas’ roses were in glorious bloom. She had her wish. “And the King shall reply to them, “Truly I tell you, in so far as you did it for one of the least of these brethren, you did it for me.” Matthew 26:40 David Barber daveyb3 @ juno.com You are encouraged to write to the authors to let them know what you think of their story, just remember to remove the space before and after the @ symbol. The space is placed in the address to protect our writers from viruses and email harvesting programs. Have a comment on today's story? Send it to: moderator@write2theheart.com ---------------------------------------------------------------- I've been writing poetry since 1979 and shared it with friends and family. I've only recently started becoming involved with a number of writing groups. I've had 3 poems published on peopleofthebible.com: "Simple Gifts", "Paid" and "Who Me?" I live in the beautiful city of Albuquerque, New Mexico. -------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------------- Story Submissions -------------------------------------------------------------- Do you have a heart-touching or inspiring story to share? Send it in the body of a plain email, no graphic or colorful backgrounds please. Write ‘submission’ in the subject line. Don’t forget to write a brief bio to introduce yourself to our readers. You may include your family friendly websites, information on your books, newsletters, and upcoming projects. Email to: moderator@write2theheart.com --------------------------------------------------------------- Military Prayer Reminder --------------------------------------------------------------- As you read over this list of names, please take that moment to pray for these young people and their families: Chris Speir Tim Speir Alan Thaddeaus Howard Todd Holland Graham William Julie Sagel Jessie Marshal Thompson Jason Eric Hernandez Kristin Danielson Ken Prieur Ryan Jonathan P. Wells Larry Miele Daniel Please continue to pray for our country, our leaders, and our troops at this time. If you have loved ones in the military, or who are being called to go overseas, send their names (first and last or first only) to be included in our prayer reminder. --------------------------------------------------------------- Cheryl's Corner This morning I had a young man come over to install my new mini satellite dish. Knowing how inquisitive and bothersome my puppy can be, I figured I had better make sure he was locked in the laundry room. When I opened the door, his bed was rolling around the floor like a giant beach ball caught in the wind. He had chewed a hole in the top, burrowed down through the shredded foam rubber and couldn’t find his way back out again. I had to reach in, find his nose, and guide him out. He didn’t seem too perturbed about the situation. I think he might be willing to do it again if I don’t clean the mess up soon. Many of you know or have read stories written by Diane Dean White. She is having a new procedure done on her back. Remember to add her to your prayer list for the coming month; that God will use this procedure to heal her back and remove the pain that has been her constant companion. God Bless, Cheryl ----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright © 2004 Write 2 the Heart Nothing may be reproduced or published without the written permission of the individual author or copyright owner. All rights belong to the authors. --------------------------------------------------------------- To subscribe, send a blank e-mail to: subscribe@write2theheart.com To unsubscribe, send a blank e-mail to: remove@write2theheart.com Visit our web site at: http://www.write2theheart.com