“Train up a child in the way he should go: even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” 

- Proverbs 22:6

This Bible verse always makes me think of my grandmother. I have so many wonderful memories with her, and was fortunate that my family lived nearby while I was growing up. 

Mamaw was a Christian. I can still picture her sitting in her favorite rocker after lunch, quietly reading her Bible and going over her prayer list. This wasn’t just a routine for her; it was an extension of who she was. Her faith was as natural to her as breathing, and the most valuable lessons she taught me were through her example because I was always watching her. 

After I married and moved away, I knew I was never far from her heart or her prayers. I looked forward to her weekly letters, which always ended with, “Be my sweet Christian girl. Love and prayers, Mamaw.” 

Whenever I faced a decision, I would think of her and ask myself, “What would Mamaw say is best?” She always put God first in every choice she made.. 

Mamaw lived by the Golden Rule, and nearly everyone in our small community knew her. The local hospital and funeral home often called her to sit quietly with a patient or grieving family. As far as I know, she never said no and never accepted payment for her time. She really made a difference in the world with her kind and loving heart.

Mamaw had a tremendous influence on my life and helped shape the woman I am today. By living her life quietly and faithfully, she influenced not only me but countless others. It wasn’t her words but her actions that had the greatest impact. The highest compliment I could receive is for someone to say I’m a lot like her.

As Proverbs 16:31 says, “Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.” 

If you are a grandparent, parent, teacher, relative or neighbor to a child of any age, remember that there are always eyes watching you. It’s important we love and teach by example.