The Candy Dish

My grandmother died 9 months after Jim. She was a wonderful, godly lady who was more like a second mother than a grandmother. I loved being in her house and just hanging out with her. When I found out 3 months after Jim died that she had pancreatic cancer, I remember thinking that I would make sure she knew how I felt. I wrote her a letter and called her almost every week. We laughed and enjoyed our regular conversations.

I was thinking just last week as I returned from a visit with my family in WV, how much I still miss her after over three years. When I think of her, I smile. There is not a single sad emotion that comes to mind. She was the best grandma I could ever ask for. She lived just 50 yards from mom's house so I was over there all the time growing up. Even when I went back home to visit during my adult years, I couldn't wait to drop my things and head over to visit grandma.

There are certain things that are perfect and beautiful reminders of grandma--her old tin pan that she did all her mixing and odds and ends in and a candy dish. From the time I was old enough to remember being in grandma's house, the green candy dish was present and always filled with candy. I would often come in, grab a piece and lay down on the davenport as I talked with grandma about everything and nothing.

I am now the proud owner of both items and I couldn't be more delighted to have them in my possession. The candy dish has a prominent place in my kitchen and I continue the tradition of keeping it filled. I started out with one of my favorite candies--peanut M&Ms. Every time I walk through the kitchen and see the candy dish, I think of grandma and my heart is warmed.

I was thinking if I was called home today, were there people in my life who would have bad memories of me? How many would smile when they think of me? Have I done anything that I need to make right? I am continuing to give that deep thought to make sure the life I live keeps Jesus at the center and that I live Him out for all the world to see. When I fail, as I often do, I want to make sure I make amends. May I continue to show others the kindness that God shows me every day.