Jill's Stories

My Grandmother, Katie Murphy, whom I called Mom Murphy, repeatedly said:  “Show me who your friends are, and I’ll tell you what you are.”

My Grandfather, John Murphy, whom I called, Pop, never said an unkind thing about anyone in my presence and in anyone else’ presence as he would comment when negativity entered the conversation:  “Do you think it will rain, Katie?”  We all knew we had better change the subject quickly or Pop would quietly leave the room, thus detaching himself from any gossip.

My own mother, Mary, said many times, “Remember who you are and where you came from.”  Thus, the admonition to act in good character where ever you are.

My own dad, Charlie, spoke not a word when it came to witnessing gossip of the unkind variety. He would stand up, leave the room and distance himself from such talk.  I believe that one of his most admirable traits is that he never spoke an unkind word about anyone, and he would not tolerate participating in gossip.    I remember that one thing he always told me was that “girls aren’t supposed to do everything” with regard to fixing up things. He was referring to auto repairs, tire changing, heavy work etc.  He also told me that there are two things that people should not lend.  One is the car, and the other is the lawn mower.  Isn’t that funny that I recalled those items? Wisdom.  He also told me that the age of 50 through 60 are the best years of one’s life.  I am beginning to see that is true.

One final car ride from his house to the hospital, was uneventful and quiet.  The hope was there that comfort would come shortly.  It did.  The room that beckoned was freshly cleaned. The bed was crisp and white covered. He undressed with the assistance of nurses, he climbed up into the resting place.  Three days and two nights shuffled by.  He talked.  He smiled. He laughed.  He cried.  He laughed again.  He talked to his granddaughter,  during his last afternoon of alertness.  He said the love words.  He smiled the love look.  He whispered his wishes.  He did not eat.  He did prove bravery.  He breathed his last.  Father, Grandfather, Husband, Child….he was all of these.  Rest easy, Dad.