Growing up I spent lots of time with my grandmother. Most of my siblings and cousins believed her to be very mean. She was hard and principled in her belief. God used me to soften her heart. No matter how she struggled in her faith and anger – I wanted to be by her side.

Grandma Mary had strong ethics. I was impressed by her efforts to keep the family together. She had a desk in the front window of the living room. This is where she penned letters and wrapped packages. She would send flavors from the South to family member across the United States.

Grandma had a television and telephone – which many people in the community did not have. Grandmother Mary was born in 1896.

My Grandma was a hard worker like the Virtuous Woman in Proverbs 31. My grandfather became very ill and could not work. Grandma took the financial responsibility on her shoulders and started working a job.

10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. 11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. 12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. Proverbs 31:10-12

Somehow all the bills were paid. Grandma did not have credit cards or a large bank account – but seemed to get everything she needed.

My school had a very special dance coming up and I needed a new dress. My parents did not have extra funds for this occasion.

Grandma Mary took me down town – where she had credit with Johnson Furniture Store. She told the owner of my need. He told her to pick out a dress. He gave her the money to pay for the dress – then put the charge on her furniture account.

I thought my grandmother was so important and special. She built a reputation of dignity, honor, and was respected in the community. My grandmother had a “Good Name.”

Let not then your good be evil spoken of: Romans 14:16

A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold. Proverbs 22:1

A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one’s birth. Ecclesiastes 7:1