A Memory of my Grandmother

This morning I began a reading a book of meditations of St. Therese of Lisieux. The focus being on how Therese communicated to God in her "Heart to Hearts". Therese saw God as a loving parent with arms open wide ready to accept and forgive the little child. It is a beautiful image, and the first meditation concluded by asking the reader to reflect upon a childhood memory of experiencing the care and affection of someone. I paused, closed my eyes and unpacked the many memories I have trying to find the perfect one in which I felt completely safe and loved, then I remembered this...

As a young girl I often had terrible dreams. One in particular scared me out of my wits, I recall it having something to do with mirrors and the devil - there were times I wouldn't go to sleep unless all the mirrors were covered. My father's parents lived with us and I often found myself knocking on their door on the nights I couldn't sleep. My Grandmother would ask if I'd had that dream again and escort me back to my room where she would kiss my forehead, snuggle me close and say the Rosary. When she said the Rosary my fears always subsided and I would feel safe and peaceful as if she had invoked my Guardian angel to keep watch over me - but she would stay with me until I fell asleep. My Grandmother was a loving and comforting woman, I only wish that she were still here. I can only hope that one day I will leave such a wonderful memory to my own grandchild.