11-08-2020

We always think we have more time. We get so caught up in our day to day lives. We take for granted the time we have on this earth. We take for granted the loved ones we have.

I recently lost my grandmother to COVID. This was the worst pain I have ever felt. I did not get to say goodbye in person. I had to say goodbye through face time. I am glad I got that at least. The pain hurt so much because I realized she was going to miss out on my wedding, my graduate school graduation and meeting her great grand children. I spoke with her two weeks before her passing, and was able to share laughs and had a great conversation. I am glad I have that to remember her by. The pain is also worse because I kept telling myself that I had more time. I never questioned if she would be here to see what I will accomplish. My grandmother was a fighter. I took for granted her presence since she always had strength that went beyond what words could explain.

This experience has taught me that it is important to make each and every day count. I want to live with the strength that my grandma had. She lived a difficult life and despite that she provided for five children, part of which was by herself. My grandmother loved her grand children and great grandchildren. The holidays were spent at her house and she never failed to make a delicious meal. Every time I would visit, she would have a soda or a snack ready to offer. My grandmother never met a stranger. At the grocery store it was easy to lose her as she was always off speaking with someone. She never met a stranger. She always put her family and our needs before her own. She would spend most of her days cooking and providing for everyone else. She deserved the world. I wanted to give her everything she deserved and more. Ultimately, she served her purpose her in this life. Othella Bowie was the glue that held our family together. She was the reason for the season.

Everything that I am today is because of her. She lived a hard life but still had a smile, and held all of us together. I want to make her proud. I want to take every opportunity this life has given me because I know she was not fortunate to have them. I cannot wait until I obtain my doctoral degree and hear her voice saying, "you're going to be a doctor." Grandma, I want to make you proud and help people in your honor.

This year has been filled with such uncertainty. We all have suffered so much in some way. Each moment we share and spend with our loved ones should always be cherished. My heart goes out to those who have lost loved ones as well.

Rest in Peace Grandma.

https://www.ggmortuary.com/obituary/Othella-Bowie