When Pearls Act Like Pebbles

My grandparents have had quite a stressful March. Though they are both in their 90’s, and though they are both rather fragile, it is still difficult to consider losing either one of them. I am most concerned about their loss of one another; they are truly soul mates. Grandpa and Grandma have been married for 68 years. Many of those years were spent in pastoral ministry.

Several years ago, Grandpa and Grandma moved to an assisted living center. While the actual decision was a difficult one to make, after they settled in, Grandpa and Grandma were extremely happy. In fact, their sense of purposefulness increased as they felt their call to ministry kick in among the residents and staff.

Colonial Residence is a nice facility. The staff is fabulous and the residents enjoy one another. Each month they rotate table seating for meals enabling the residents to meet each other. My grandparents are among the “favorites” as others always want to be assigned to their table. Grandpa and Grandma know how to focus on people, making them feel comfortable, and addressing their spiritual needs in relationship. It is truly a beautiful phenomenon.

Two weeks ago, Grandma had a "mild" stroke (if there is such a thing). As a result, she had to spend some time in a rehab center for physical therapy. The worst part included a separation from Grandpa. At times like these, I dislike being so far away, but my family is extraordinary and so many took turns visiting them. One of the greatest needs was to take Grandpa to see Grandma as often as possible. Now, you must understand how difficult it is for Grandpa to get around, but nothing could stop him from visiting his sweetheart!

My cousin, Brian, relayed the following story:

When Aunt Kathi said it would be a week or two (before Grandma comes home), Grandpa groaned and said "No, no, no", to which Grandma took his hand and said, "Warner, I'll get better and come back and be with you for the next 25 years. Well, let's be realistic....10 years. But, you know, we should probably be going to see Jesus pretty soon." Grandpa perked up and said, "I'm ready", and Grandma replied, "Me too."

When my Uncle Rick took Grandpa to visit Grandma, he said that he “disappeared” when their eyes met.

Grandma’s recovery should have probably taken longer, but she was determined to be home with Grandpa as soon as possible.

My favorite incident occurred just a day or so before Grandma’s return home. As a mentioned previously, everyone loves my grandparents, including those who care for them. One morning, one of those caregivers came to my grandpa and said, “I want what you have” meaning “I want Jesus.” WOW! I don’t know why that amazes me because it has happened over and over again in their lives. My grandparents, in their 9th decade of life, are still pebbles creating ripples and circles impacting eternity - I want to be like my grandparents, Warner & Pearl Keller!