GRAM
She was a child’s dream grandmother, and a maternal light that shined on all of us, with unconditional love and patience. Gram resided in a rarified atmosphere…one of purity. She had an effortless presence that was wise yet humble, strong yet gentle. Funny. Witty. Sweet. Gram was a lot of fun to hang out with. She cherished her time with everyone….and always made you feel special and your words feel important. Indeed, a soul sincere.
The thing I’ll remember most about Gram was her unique ability to revel in the small, seemingly insignificant everyday happenings. Life’s simple pleasures were treasures for her to discover. She would delight over an average slice of pizza, or rave about the beauty of a drive through Schenectady. That energy was so infectious. I’d like to think the Mooney’s are like that because of her. It’s something you can’t fake. Gram truly was gracious.
Perhaps her greatest legacy was her family. Cultivating seven children into the wonderful adults they are today. And being so present in the lives of her grandchildren. Honestly, the Mooney’s are the most genuine people I’ve ever encountered. And I get to call them family.
Throughout Gram’s life, her unwavering strength in the face of very grim circumstances at times, inspired us all. Whenever we are in the face of something hard, we should think of her softness. Whenever we find ourselves lost, we should think of her welcoming us into her home. What’s gone is not lost if you know where to find it...the memories we all had with Gram are solid objects that we can take out and hold whenever we need them. That is something I believe, and that is the faith she taught me.
I’ll always remember her telling me every time I was about to embark on a journey or face a challenge...she’d say, “Do good.” She didn’t mean do well. She meant, do good in this world. And that is what she did...she was our superhero who flew under the radar. From leaving a stack of seven pb&js on the table before work, to reminding all of us of family birthdays, or simply saving newspaper clippings that reminder her of one of us. She was so selfless and thoughtful.
One of the last conversations I had with Gram occurred when she was admitted at St. Peter’s hospital. We spoke at length about what a beautiful family she grew and all the great times her and I had together….and I told her how much I loved her. And she looked at me with her big blue angelic eyes, and said “Jay I love you too. I’ve lived a great life…” And she meant it. For someone to say that at the end of their life, and actually mean it...And to accept the end with dignity and equanimity. To me, that is a life well-lived. That is my Grandma.
J.T. CONDE 