I’ve been dreaming up something new for 12th and Blossom—something that feels like a conversation with a dear friend over coffee. I’m calling it Kindred. These posts are where I’ll share reflections, stories, and encouragement for living a beautiful Catholic life in the everyday.
When my Grandma Jane passed away 12 years ago, I lost one of my best friends. She was my twin flame, my champion, and my greatest encourager.
I could tell you a million stories about this beautiful woman...
But here is what sticks out to me most. My grandmother had not had an easy life. Though she was born into a well-off family, there was plenty of sadness. I’ve heard hints of fear and abuse in her childhood, listened to stories of harsh treatment from her well-meaning parents, and I’ve been in awe of the strength she had after the tragic and unexpected death of her child, my uncle, when he was just 10 years old. She survived the death of my grandfather by 16 years, and I know it broke her heart every day. They had such a beautiful and timeless love.
And yet, in the midst of all that heartache, I have never known anyone so devoted to her faith—and especially to the Blessed Mother. She attended daily Mass for decades, drove nuns to the grocery store, served in ministry after ministry, and steadfastly passed the faith down through her family. When I became a mother, she gave me a copy of The Mother’s Manual - it felt like a passing of the torch. Her own copy, which I now treasure, was a well-worn standard in her purse.
After she passed, I remember going through boxes of her things with my mother. I opened her Bible and a handwritten note fell out. It was a prayer she had written, filled with gratitude for her life. She began her prayer with the words, “Thank you for my life, exactly the way it is.”
I broke down sobbing when I first read those words, and I’m tearing up now thinking of how much weight they hold.
Is it any coincidence that Grandma Jane shared her birthday with the Feast of the Assumption? I think not. It feels so fitting that Mary - who lived her entire life saying “yes” to God - and my grandmother - who kept her eyes fixed on His promises through every joy and sorrow - share such a holy day.
And every year when August 15th comes around, I picture them together: Mary welcoming my grandmother home, both of them radiant, both of them whole. It makes me want to live the same way: rooted in trust, faithful in the ordinary, and ready to be lifted into God’s presence when my own time comes.
So as this feast approaches, take a moment to ask yourself:
Where is God inviting you to say “yes” again? What burdens can you place in His hands so you can live with your eyes on eternity? Maybe mark the day with a Rosary, attend Mass, or spend a few quiet minutes thanking Him for your life—exactly the way it is.
