Swaddled and Cuddled

I was thrilled. Settling into a cushioned arm chair, my hands cradled the baby’s head and held firm her petite form. Born minutes before, she laid small and trusting in the arms of an unfamiliar person, with me, her Grandma.

With astonishment I gazed upon her precious newness. Her face was smooth and radiant, angelic in pose. A delicate hand supported her rosy cheek as sleep embraced her.

Her heart shaped mouth blew tiny bubbles. Every breath was soft and peaceful, enjoying a deserved rest after such a momentous appearance. Leaning closer, I caught the scent of freshness, of bursting ripe peaches. My nose tickled with delight.

She was all sweetness and her name is Leona.

Reluctantly yielding this special bundle to other waiting arms, I watched family interaction—daughter to husband, father to daughter, my son, now an uncle to the new baby. I witnessed myself in my daughter when I had embraced motherhood so long ago.

I recalled a moment when my husband visited after childbirth hauling in all the other siblings, each dressed in a variety of mismatched stripes and zig-zags. They surrounded their new brother while helping themselves to my breakfast platter.

The ‘Early Years’ tape then rewound through other life passages. The first day of kindergarten. A team winning home run. Late night study for a math test. Boyfriends and girlfriends. And the gift of new life.

At this moment I am stepping into the place of grandparent. How utterly grand and amazing. How utterly diminished I feel. But the young generation must move forward and increase. I follow with measured steps realizing that most of my years have already been lived. There are now fewer days ahead to experience.

Yet the best is yet to come.

These days will provide the opportunity to squeeze out life’s goodness to others. Imparting love of life can be seen in the simplicity of laughing at the dinner table as faith and kindness are shared. It can also be seen in knowledge gained from the wealth of written words, as understanding ripens into wisdom.

Yes, Grandma can make a memorable contribution. She can play forward the baton to another level with her own style of living life. Essentials such as dignity, respect, justice, and liberty can impart the most cherished fundamental of all—hope.

So a hearty welcome to baby Leona.

And here’s to the “Circle of Life” as we all add our charm.

… and that’s how I live it.