Hope B., Incarnation Catholic School
The Power of Love
“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” This quote, by Winnie the Pooh, has been a source of motivation for me since I heard it during a graduation speech when I was just nine years old. At that time, the quote resonated with me because of my love for Disney. Now, at thirteen this quote means so much more.
On March 25, 2020, just as the world shut down due to the pandemic, we had just finished eating dinner when we got the call that my grandmother had had a significant stroke and was rushed to the hospital. Her likelihood of recovery was extremely slim. As we hung up the phone tears flooded our faces with the sadness of losing someone we loved so dearly. The stroke left my grandmother unable to speak, read, or write. She was trapped inside her body unable to communicate, but able to comprehend what was going on around her. After months of rehabilitation and countless therapy sessions, we had to come to the realization that this was her new normal.
My grandmother has her master''s degree in education, was a teacher for over 35 years, and was extremely active in her community and social circles. She had always been a caregiver, playmate, and role model for me and had spent countless hours helping me with my studies. In the blink of an eye the tables had turned and now it was my responsibility to take on the role of caregiver. Through this journey, I have had to use strength, positivity, and creativity to find ways to interact, entertain, and spend time with my grandmother. It is my turn to help her with exercises to regain strength and memory. At times I feel nothing but despair and would give anything for her to say my name or call me “sugar bear,” but the sparkle in her eyes and her soft, sweet smile speaks volumes and makes my sadness disappear, motivating me to push forward. Through all her frustrations she is still teaching me and motivating me to believe that even in the darkest times we can all find happiness if we choose.
I have learned you should never underestimate the power of love and positivity. My grandmother is still with us today because of the love and support around her. She is my motivation to stay positive and persevere through challenges and this attitude gives her the motivation to keep fighting to find her voice. Her strength and bravery are enviable. Every moment I spend with my grandmother I realize that even though her voice is gone she communicates with me from the heart, and there is nothing stronger than the love you feel for those dearest to you. Each new day we are given is a new beginning to be “braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think” because we never know what tomorrow will bring.
