This is a photo I took of a window in the back of my grandfather's childhood home. I was brave enough to step into that old house that felt like it was about to give in to the weight of my body. It made every sound you can imagine as it moaned with my every step. I can remember when the house still had a strong life force.
It was 1979 -- the year before my grandfather's mother died. Back then, there were still farm animals about the house, an old dog, and scattered remnants of the fall harvest when I looked across the field. great-grandma Alice was suffering from Alzheimers. From her window in the back of the house, she saw me running and playing with the various farm animals. She called me over to the window and asked me, "Who boy are you?" I told her and she smiled, "You a good looking boy." I said thank you and smiled shly as I ran off to play more.
I came across her window a second time and she called me over to ask the same question. I answered as if it was my first time hearing it. I was pre-warned to do so by my aunt. After great-grandma Alice asked me the same question for a third time. I ran off to play only in the front of the house. I was 12 years old.
12 comments:
Stephen, I love the balance of the composition.
Nice!
Geoffrey-
Thanks. The photos and memories compel me to tell a story.
That is so neat how when you see somthing from the past, even when it is so different than it was in your past, it still can trigger all the loving memories. You were so lucky to have a wonderful family. And your Grandma was fortunate to have such a loving and understand grandson in repeating the answer. Even when told to do so, some children would not be so considerate these days... sadly...
Faith-
Always a sweet and kind word. You're a blessing. Good to see you. Peace~
what a beautiful story (and photos)... thanks for allowing us this glimpse into your life.
Blkbutterfly-
You are so welcome. Thanks for stopping in.
That is such a sweet and sad story. Thanks for sharing it. Reminds me of how my grand-father who is now in his nineties, would ask, "Who's your mama," wondering which one of his daughters children I was.
That was such a bittersweet story so many can identify with.
Fitz-
Thanks, brother. Yes, I see you went through the same.
Bronze-
So true. Thanks.
alzheimer's is such a terrible disease for what it does to the mind, but you handled things well with your great-grandma, even at age 12. i'm loving these life stories.
interessante que também tenho um texto que escrevi depois de visitar uma tia que também esta neste estado de esquecimento por conta da idade avançada.
Irineu Xavier Cotrim, É difícil, mas também é parte da vida. Obrigado pela sua visita.
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