Generational Gratitude

My mother’s father was in WWII.

He gave almost everything, but not his life. So much so, he came back a shell of who he was.

He tried his best to raise my mother, but ultimately did not.

His situation led to circumstances where my mother was forced to find her own way at a very young age.

She grew from his challenge. Rose from his ashes.

With no personal experience of how to be loved, she gave my brother and I everything she never received.

I continue to heal and grow from the generational challenges passed down by those in my family who struggled in the war.

Thank you Grandpa for all you did, and all you didn’t do.

We have all grown from your challenges and I know, deep down, that’s all you would have wanted.

You are remembered in us as your legacy.