A BLISSFUL LIFE byJenniferKelleher

Grandma Sally

My Grandma Sally was famous for her quotes. If you ever had the pleasure of being a guest in her home, you would find them hanging all around. “Live and let live.” Some were written in careful calligraphy, decorated with hand drawn flowers, and framed. “It is… what it is.” Others were scripted on chalkboards, nailed to the wall. “Be kind to yourself.” And still more, jotted on postits. “Most people are good.” “Sometimes you have to stir the pot!” These quotes were Grandma Sally’s self-prescribed good advice to help her stay present and on track. One of her favorite pieces of advice for me was to, “do as the pilgrims did.” The first time she said it, I asked, “And what is that, Gma?” Her reply was, “Do what the day brings!” Gma shared this advice with me many times over the years, always with the same words and importance.

For years now, I have carried her repeated guidance with me daily. It reminds me to not get too stuck on the original idea. It reminds me that life is organic, forever in movement, and ever evolving. It reminds me to seize the day, and to enjoy the simple things. It reminds me to be where I am, with who and what is in front of me. It reminds me that change is ok. It reminds me that sometimes it is necessary to let go of expectations. It reminds me that happiness and joy is inside of me and always available. And now that she is gone, it reminds me more than ever of her.

I feel blessed to have gotten to know my grandmother. She lived