Words~~~

I read an entry on a diary describing Christmas traditions in Belgium, and for some reason, it brought back thoughts of my grandfather, whom I never met, but to whom I’ve always felt a deep connection.

 

My paternal grandfather came from Germany. He returned to his country when my father was only 7 years old. After my parents passed, I found a poem written by my grandfather. It was almost identical to one that I had written when I was a teenager. Both were about a little camp that my family owned on a logging pond in Maine. Both held sentiments about this special place that brought us such peace and serenity. During all of the summers that I spent on that pond, I was unaware of the poem or that my grandfather had built the cabin. I wish I had known. No one ever talked of him. And yet, now when I read his poem or look at the photo that accompanies it, I feel as if I have always known him. I suppose that is why “words” have such an effect on me for our hearts are revealed within our words~

 

“Surely this place seems like paradise

so quiet, calm, and serene

with the gentle sloping mountains

reflecting their shades of green

Oh little camp, so quiet and still

if molded into life

You would bid us return and remain with thee

away from worldly strife…”

 

I marvel at the hearts that are revealed here. I am sometimes left speechless when reading the diaries of others. They touch me deeply and linger long after I have finished reading. Your words are forever written within my heart~ Thank you for sharing them here.

 

With loving {{{hugs}}} always~

 

 

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November 19, 2004

AS YOUR WORDS STAY WITHIN MY HEART …. BE WELL DEAR FRIEND…

November 19, 2004
November 19, 2004

Open Diary’s Edelweis is a nice, friendly 53 yr old married lady music teacher near Antwerp, Belgium, you might like to know. She loves to commune with nature and posts beautiful pictures of the countryside and interesting places. many of their friends & relatives have passed away recently, her mother has Azheimers and her father is not well.

November 19, 2004

Your entries stay with me also. Just wonderful to read. Cheers.

November 19, 2004

I so wish I had a place like that in the poem to escape to. That I could get away from here, from the pain and memories. Leaving it all behind. Leaving everyone behind. To be alone, where I would not have any expectations of anyone and they would have none of me.

November 20, 2004

Words endure, and that poem will forever be engraved in your consciousness. I am so glad you made those discoveries about your grandfather and can cherish even more deeply those summer memories. I am always thankful for your words here at OD. Take care,

November 22, 2004

I am glad you have such a treasured memento to remember your grandfather. How special…a camp on a logging pond. It would truly seem a place of peace and beauty. Your words touch people, adrift! Happy Thanksgiving,

Its so sweet that you have such a treasured memento to remember your grandfather…. amazing.. 🙂 wish i had something too…