My Grandmother passed away at the beginning of October, and while I don’t prefer to discuss personal things that involve my family on the blog, I do want to say that wonderful memories always outweigh any regrets in life. I wish I would have been able to spend more time with her in these last years, but living 10 hours away made it difficult.
She always wanted to visit Switzerland, our ancestral home, along with Austria. While she never made it there herself, I got the chance to go in June. In a way, I felt like her envoy, remembering the many letters that we had exchanged about Switzerland in the past.
In July, I was able to visit her and share pictures of the places she had long dreamed about. She seemed so happy and healthy on that visit, it is hard to imagine how quickly things can change in life.
Last week I rediscovered her last letter, and while it made me cry (for hours), it also made me happy that I had been able to share something special with her: a longing to see Switzerland. I know it sounds a bit strange- to long after a place you’ve never been, but it came from something deep within me. Like I needed to be there one day.
I dream that somewhere in the great beyond, she is exploring lofty mountains, the rich, green pastures and lakes that sparkle from the sun like a million diamonds. Because after all, Switzerland is a bit like heaven- especially in the hearts of those who love it.
[View from Schangnau, Switzerland - 3 miles from our ancestral land.]
This is very sweet. That longing is there for a reason. Your grandmother's legacy will live on as you visit one day. I hope you will make it there soon! xo
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