A Box of Memories

( May 2004)

Today, for a brief period of time, my world stopped. I received a box in the mail from my Mamaw. I knew it was coming and looked forward to receiving it. But, when the time came to open it, I paused. I knew what I would find inside would bring so many emotions with it. After a short time, I carefully cut away the tape and slowly opened the rectangular box. I paused again, before removing the tissue paper that was protecting the contents. Was I ready for this? After deciding I was, I gently removed the tissue paper. There, in my hands, lay a part of my Papaw.

You see, he passed away on May 23, 2005. He was more than just my grandfather though. He was my rock. Growing up he had been more of a father to me than a grandfather. He always knew how to make me laugh. He always knew exactly what I needed to hear and when I needed to hear it. He was the most honest, sincere, loyal, dedicated and loving man I have ever known.
Okay, okay...back to the contents of the box. I had asked my Mamaw if I could have some of his ties and handkerchiefs. Yes, he’s one of the few gentlemen that still carried a handkerchief in his back pants pocket every single day. He was a true gentleman. And, his ties…very few people had ever seen him without one. Only those of us who were lucky enough to know him personally did. I felt like those were the two items that most reminded me of him.

I plan to make a pillow out of his ties. I plan to stitch them together to make a beautiful pillow front and back. The handkerchiefs I just wanted to have. The first thing I did when I picked up his handkerchief was smell it. Yes, just as I’d hoped, it still carried his scent. It brought such comfort. I felt like he was right here with me with his arms around me.

Well, wish me luck on the pillow construction. I’ll post a picture when I’ve completed it. And, Mamaw, thanks so much for sharing a little bit of Papaw with me!