Role Models

My parents were both very conscientious about training my siblings and me in all things that mattered to them. They instilled in us the importance of respecting others, even if you didn’t like them. They also inspired us to love and obey God which meant going to church on Sunday without questions, comments, or arguments.  

Mom trained all of us proper table manners; keep your elbows off the table, chew with your mouth closed and pass platters of food to your right. 

She also impressed on us the importance of dress. Clean, wrinkle free, and modest clothing was imperative. You knew you passed her standard of dress if you left the house without hearing her say, “You’re not going out dressed like that!” 

Dad promoted correct posture. One of my sisters had a lazy gait. Her left foot flopped out to the left when she walked. But, Dad corrected her lazy foot with constant reminders to, “walk straight”. She did and that lazy gait disappeared.

Giving a firm handshake and looking at others eye to eye was important to Dad. He also taught us not to wait to be asked to do something, but rather to be observant. “Look for what needs doing, then do it.” 

I loved my parents and am grateful for what they taught me. But, my role model, the one who inspired and encouraged me when I needed it most, was my Grandma Weber. 

Grandma’s presence was constant while growing up. For the first eight years of my life we lived in the same town as Grandma and Grandpa. Consequently, we spent many special occasions in their home with aunts, uncles and cousins. Grandma’s house, the hub, the center, the family gathering place.  

But then, we moved away and as a result, I missed Grandma.

It was during a very low time in our family’s history, that Mom, my little brother and I returned to Grandma’s house to live. It was a mixed blessing. I was without Dad, my favorite parent, but living with Grandma gave me a new perspective on life, one that influenced me for the rest of my life.  

Our home had gotten wonky. Dad’s drinking and depression was taking its toll on the family. Mom was left weary and wanting, us kids were afraid and unstable. 

When I arrived at Grandma’s house and took up full time residency with her I felt as though I stepped onto solid ground. Her reliable routine stabilized me, and her stalwart presence cheered my downcast heart. 

Those few months with Grandma gave me a lasting vision for how to live well.

Why Bother?

Why bother considering our role model? A role model is someone whose life is worth modeling. Not everyone’s life is worthy of imitating. But, finding one that is, leaves an impression forever. 

  I wrote the story of my journey to forgiveness for those who want to learn from their childhood trauma instead of being burdened by it. You can find A Heart’s Journey To Forgiveness at Redemption Press and Amazon.