Grandfather, Teacher, Friend: A Man of Many Names

Dear Papa

For a thousand different reasons you probably don’t remember, most of them you do not even know about. You always had a way of making what was to me the biggest problem in the world seem smaller with doing nothing but say a few words. The conversation could have nothing to do with the problem. But the mere distraction from the problem made it seem smaller or gave me a chance to think more clearly to solve the problem. More than anything I want to thank you for being there for no reason other than to give a shoulder to lean on.

My Grandfather. He never looks at the camera.

Just by listening to me showed me that I can make a difference by just being there for someone. That I didn't have to solve everyone’s problems or give really good advice. That by just sitting and be willing to listen to their problems I can make a difference to them. That just talking about something non important or relevant to their situation can brighten their day. There was not a day since I became conscious of what a grandfather was that you didn't abide by what the term really means, someone who teaches old lessons and loves unconditionally, also to spoil grandchildren rotten which you did quite well.

Grandpa and Me, 1 year and 8 months. He still doesn't look at the camera.

You were there when I came squalling into the world. You were there for the good times, the bad times, the heartbreaks and listened to me complain. When I couldn't talk to my parents or to my friends or even my sisters I knew you would be waiting for me to show up because you just knew when I needed you. Also I’m pretty sure mom would call to give you a heads up when I left the house. Even when you had no clue what I would be going on about things, you didn't understand, you listened attentively and put in when you thought was appropriate. I have you to thank for having the ability to listen completely to a person even when I have no clue what they are going on about. If for nothing else of the thousands of things you have done for me then for giving me the understanding that just a listening ear is all some people need to have a better day, Thank you.

Lots of Love, 

Your Sama Girl

We Talked

We talked about everything,

We talked about nothing,

Even with out with our silences,

We seemed to speak of something

Laughing or Crying,

You held me through them all,

My tears and my fears,

Picking me up when I fall.

Never judging, never ignoring

Any thoughts I had told,

Every shouting match we had,

You never shouted back.

You listened, I learned

You held my hand through it all

You were always there,

Especially when my backs to the wall.

No one Knows me better,

Even if they say they due.

I don’t think anyone

Can hold a candle to you.