The tree invited admiration with arms outstretched, standing tall. It was the fullest, most abundant tree we had ever seen. Fragrant hints whispered throughout our home. Even though the Balsam Century’s post was our front living room, every nook and corner was aware of the presence of the tree. Each ornament, twinkling, shining, placed with care amidst the branches and needles seemed to represent the blessings of our year. Safely kept, nestled securely in its arms. My joy this holiday was overflowing.

The call came on a usual day at a usual time. The ring gave no hint of the news it would bear. Grandmother had fallen, again. At 89 years of age with a worsening case of dementia, surgery was not an option to address the bleeding on her brain. Life was slipping from her fragile body.

A distance of one thousand miles separated us. I was left without the comfort of holding her hand and so sought solace in the many cherished memories of my dear grandmother.

Summers spent poolside with brown sack lunches, gentile reminders to show kindness to delicate pool animal floats, and strict drip inspections before being allowed inside the century old Victorian styled home. Autumn brought school and tenured wisdom from my school teacher grandmother, “Be diligent and obedient.” Winter was a wonderland of sweet treats, a Christmas tree in every room, toy trains tooting around each one, and family. Spring bloomed full of Cherry Blossom trees lining the streets and homemade Chinese food cooked in a wok. Like the seasons, Grandmother was boundless with creative imagination.

Strolling through my thoughts, I began to realize the shaping influence my grandmother had in my life. With grace and resolve she always did what was right. Grandmother, although poised with dignity, never lost an opportunity to break out in song, tell a joke badly, or laugh good naturedly at herself. She worked hard and achieved excellence in whatever she set her mind to. But above all, Grandmother loved completely and forgave freely.

My gaze once again falls on the tree. The fullness of its presence, the reach of its arms, the treasures filling the branches, the frailness of its life fading, and I am filled with gratitude for the tree represents the beautiful blessing of my dear Grandmother Dot.