I’ve been feeling pretty beaten up… this is just a gratitude post, things my family taught me…
My Memaw- If He’s yours, make sure everyone knows it. Verbalize your pride in Him and make Him proud. Fix your face and get dressed everyday. Wear your lipstick. You will feel better and He will appreciate it. Be a lady. Manners matter. Kill ‘em with kindness. Don’t trust everyone enough to let them see your tears. Laugh from the belly and the soul. Sing to babies, sing with kids. Silly is fabulous. More isn’t better, enough is plenty.
My Grandma… Love Him with every fiber of your soul and fight Him if needed to take care of Himself. Follow Him, but lead others. Give. Fight to the death for your family. Keep your word. Never show fear to dogs, horses, or people. Do not tolerate rudeness. Don’t lie, but be kind while being honest. Never let anyone leave your house hungry and know everyone’s favorite dish. Grandkids always get grapes. Use extra chicken thighs when making soup or dumplins. Pet milk and real butter make everything better.
Both grandmothers— “God bless ‘em” and “Bless their heart” 😇
My mom… Good enough is not good enough if you can do better. Be direct. Don’t back down if you’re right, but apologize if you’re wrong. Work hard, budget, and save. Create. Be independent. Be strong. Show up for your family. Make your home so that you are content to be there. Sleep whenever ya can cuz insomnia is a real thing. Believe that you can, or else ya caint.
My father… Give your heart away. You take care of your family by taking care of your job. Learn all you can about your trade, use common sense and reasoning to fill in the gaps. Learn math. Have a few funny stories under your hat at all times. If you listen more than you speak, people are more likely to pay attention when you have something to say. New boots at Christmas.
Granddaddy… He babied her… Simple pleasures add up. Own your guilty pleasures. There’s nothing wrong with quiet. Do not chase the chickens. If you love them right, a horse and a cow will trail you like a good dog.
My Pap… unconditional love does exist. Love can survive distance. He took care of her. Don’t speak ugly about people. Your reputation matters. Give without hesitation to women and kids with less. Allow men to earn what you give them, fair pay for work. Pride and self-respect are real things. Men are always to keep women and kids safe. Be humble and kind. Smile when you meet people. Use authority in your tone sparingly and people will notice when it’s used. Ensure people feel seen and heard. The first minutes when a man gets home are for checking on his family. **he loved me the mostest, my only taste of unconditional love**
