“AN ODE TO MARIA”

On December 10, 1963, an incredible woman passed from this life and met her Creator with assurance.

Her name was Maria MastroGiovanni Pucillo. She was my maternal grandmother. I was 10 years old, and answered the phone (a rotary phone), to hear my mother's voice tell me Maria was gone, much too young.

So, why do I remember that moment so vividly? I'm not sure it was the moment, but rather my grandmother's life, and the incredible impact she had on me in such a short time.

Her kindness was unparalleled. Not sure I have yet to meet anyone that could match her heart. She lived to serve those around her, even the "weaker vessels" that mattered little to most people.

When I slept over at her house, aside from brushing my teeth with Ivory Soap (that's right), every experience was a joy, because it was so easy, so natural, so loving. She never, ever changed. Always meek, always kind, always putting others first.

Ya know, she kind of reminds me of He who was born in a used manger, Who even in birth put others first.

My grandmother had such an impact on my soul that when our youngest daughter was born, we named her after Maria. My daughter's huge heart often takes me back to simpler, kinder days and memories.

The Point Is This:

We may not see immediate results from laying our lives down for others, even in simple ways, but when it's harvest time, believe me, the fruit is sweet and special.

Let us serve and love, even when it is no longer the American Way because it's still Jesus’ way. And He matters most.

I have never been the most sentimental guy around, but I still miss Maria Pucillo and would give a month's pay just to brush my teeth with her again.

See you on the other side, Grandma. Still love ya.