A Truly Inspiring Story of One Woman

Introduction

The story that I am presenting to you today, is a true story about a woman who never took a day of her life for granted. Her story reminds us to live everyday as if it were our last. How would you react if you knew that the birthday that you were celebrating would be the last one? What exactly do you think would be the last thing on your mind?

Narrative

I’ll never forget her, and she will forever remain a place in my heart. “Who was she?” She was the sweetest, most loving, and kind-hearted woman I have ever met. She was a beautiful woman, with shiny light brown eyes, with big, gray and black, curly hair. I cherished every moment with her. Every time she came to visit she greeted us with nice warm hugs. Just being around her was a blessing.

When I saw her we would sing and dance, watch television, paint each others nails, talk about God, and everything else that came to mind. She made up plenty of nicknames for me like; “Princess” and “Butterball.” She was a star in my eyes, but it never crossed my mind that sooner or later she would die. She was very graceful. She dedicated her life to Christ and her family. She never took time off from neither of the two. Her passion was to serve God and others. She was patient, loving, and kind. She was simply the definition of love.

I always ask myself why do the good die young do as if she was to live forever. I miss everything about her; her grace, her presence, and her smile. She reminded us often that she would soon leave to be with Jesus. But, no one actually thought that “soon” would come as quick as it did.

The year of 2003 was her last year on Earth and, June 27th would also be her last birthday. On her birthday she was surrounded by her family at a local restaurant in Jackson, Tennessee. They ate great food, laughed and reminisced. Until, it was time to blow the candles on her cake. As she enjoyed her cake, the restaurant staff came out one-by-one to sing the joyous tune of “Happy Happy Birthday.” This excitement took her by surprise. She choked and everyone failed to realize that her life was disappearing right before their very eyes. Her family finally noticed quickly after the song that her eyes were red and her heart at stopped. They tried everything that you could possibly think of to bring her back to life. But, nothing seemed to work. It was simply too late.

God had already laid the angel to rest. It was a dark, rainy, Friday afternoon. Something I could never forget to someone that died too soon. She died right in front of our eyes. No last goodbye, word of advice, not even a last kiss or hug. That damaged me because she was the woman who inspired me, to love God, follow my dreams, and to always put family first. I ask myself over and over again why it had to be her.

She was buried later that week. People came from all over the country to pay their respect to a woman that was so sweet. The whole entire place was filled with lilies and roses that reminded me of her. Who was she? She was my Grandmother. Her name was Inez Whitfield Ross. She was the most remarkable woman in my world. I carry her legacy everyday in my heart. She always encouraged me to embrace my love for Christ, my inner beauty and also to always encourage and help others.

Conclusion

Her death changed my whole attitude about life. It dawned on me that I should never take a day of my life for granted. Because, Tomorrow is never promised and Yesterday will always be a day that you can get back. I would do anything to bring her back and I have heard many people say that. But, I have found that it is true. We want the people that are special to us, to stay in our lives forever. This will always be impossible. So, I will leave this with this with you today. We are all special to someone. What are some things that would be said about you? What if you died today, would the things said about you be good, or bad? With that being said I want to encourage everyone in this room to make a difference, inspire someone. Don’t take life for granted besides you only life once. May my Grandmother forever REST IN PEACE.