My grandmother is a pillar. She holds up those around her so that they will not fall down and crumble. Without her support, there would only be rubble, fragments of the greatness around her that she would have held together carefully.

When her mother fell ill in her old age, my grandmother stood tall and lent her hands to hold her up. She was a watchful eye over her every doing, ensuring that despite the emotional and physical pain that they were both enduring, my great grandmother was taken care of. At her final rest, my grandmother wept for her mother. Yet, she began to remember the times that they had shared when joy was abundant. Recalling her mother's incredible resilience, she found less of a reason to shed tears and more of a reason to appreciate her memory.

My grandmother and her husband share a deep and passionate love.Together they have lived countless experiences that have painted their lives with vibrancy. As my grandfather ages, his heart and integrity remain, but his body has seen a stronger past. Despite the physical changes that he faces, his humble and pure smile shines brighter than it ever has. His laughter brings an infinite amount of warmth to the hearts that belong to every member of our sizable family. Again, my grandmother has her hand resting on his back, holding him so that he may be strong once again.

My grandmother has many children and grandchildren, and we as an entire family visit her home every Sunday. Enjoying dinner prepared by her unwavering hands, we bask in the company of each other and catch up on the newest installments of our busy lives. Looking past the table and across the kitchen and living room, her home is pristine and proper, well-kept by the same hands that work tirelessly in the kitchen.

These are the same hands that also help to steady my grandfather as he rises from his chair. The same hands that guided my great grandmother across the room. The same hands that give to us not only her company but her endless generosity.

A family is a diverse and complex clique, a large family is even more so. At times it may be difficult to watch those who we hold so close endure emotional and physical pain. We are ever so lucky to have those who hold up the lives of others like pillars.
Cherish them, and always give to them limitless amounts of love.