October 2009

A Grandmother’s Legacy

Etched in my memory is the month of May, 1967. I was 7 years of age and in the second grade. It was May Day at school. My mother came to see me wrap the May poll. After the activities we went to run some important errands; according to what my mother told my teacher as I said goodbye to my friends.

I can still hear my mother saying: “Now Robin, Mommy has to go to the unemployment office. I want you sit quietly and mind your manors while Mommy conducts business. When I get through I’ll take you to get a milkshake at Woolworth’s, if you are good.” Woolworth’s was a popular five and dime store that sold an array of clothing and household items with a food counter that made the best milkshakes.

I remember arriving at the unemployment office and sitting not very far from Mother as she stood at the counter talking with a lady I had never seen before. Things seemed to be going well until I over herd my mother say thank you but I believe I will do better on my own.

My mother actually spoke about the events for the first time while holding her great-grandson. As I looked on, she talked about taking a test for a job as a file clerk in City Hall. She didn’t test well and the unemployment clerk suggested that my mother continue doing domestic work or another option was becoming a waitress at the Hot Shop. The clerk told my mother that career wise; that was as much as she could hope for, given her educational background.

The unemployment clerk was right about a couple of things: my mother hadn’t finished high school, and that reading and writing were difficult for her. My mother was both a waitress and a domestic worker. Nevertheless, the clerk overlooked my mothers drive to succeed.

Years later when my sons were diagnosed with learning disabilities; my mother and I knew that their disabilities were inherited. Like my mother; I too struggled with reading and writing. I remember classmates laughing and making fun at my inabilities. One of my teachers suggested that I become a housewife.

Today, both my mother and I have the last laugh. She was a successful business owner of three daycare centers (Smith’s Daycare) in city of Philadelphia for 20 years; she is currently living well in retirement. Of course, I am blessed too.

What about you? Has your grandmother’s legacy taught you a life lesson that you’re willing to share? If so, please join Chap’s Expression’s Social Network and share your story. We may feature your story as our monthly admiration.

Blessings,
Chap