Last Thursday was my grandpa Coburn's (mom's dad) birthday. Although he has been gone for a while now, I couldn't help thinking about him all day long. On top of that we watched "The Bucket List" Thursday night. Great movie for those who haven't seen it. It made me think alot about what grandpa did in life and all he taught me. Just a little background on Grandpa. His name is Jay N. Coburn (we aren't sure if the N stands for Neilsen or just N). I obviously named my second child after Grandpa, in hopes that he turns out to be the kind of man that grandpa was and take his namesake seriously. Grandpa was the most kind, gentle, stern man you will ever meet. He accomplished more in his life than most people do and did it all with dignity. He demanded respect and gave it in return. Grandpa served in WWII, was injured and received the purple heart award. This is the only award he ever showed us but upon his death, we found many, many more he received for his efforts and service. Grandpa was not a religious man, but he taught us to always pray together and remember to thank our Heavenly Father for all he has given us, especially the food on the table and the family to eat it with. He is a man I greatly respect and admire. When I say this, I actually can't put into words the way I feel about grandpa, it just wouldn't do it justice. And on top of that, I break down and cry 'cause I just miss him so much. I know those of you reading this in the family miss him too, it's hard. Just know that we will see him again and we will be a family forever. I have no doubt about this.
Just some life lessons I learned from grandpa:
1 A hard days work is worth more than you will be paid. You earn respect, gain confidence, and can be proud of what was accomplished. Money can't replace those things.
2 Living on a farm is FUN.
3 Respect everyone and they will respect you.
4 Family is more important than any worldly posession.
5 Always remember to have fun. Grandpa was an excellent singer and a well known square dance caller.
6 Finish what you started.
7 Take off your hat in his house (we still do this out of the respect he demanded. I think if he saw us in his house with our hats on, he would come back to haunt us.)
Happy Birthday Grandpa. We miss you!
3 comments:
you said it very well traci! you are very lucky to come from a great heritage- on both sides- i am lucky to have gotten to know your grandparents on both sides!!
Great - THANKS A LOT!!! I had to start over about 4 times, cuz I couldn't get through it without crying. It was perfect in everyway! Love ya
I think that sums up in every way, what alot of us feel about Grandpa...we are excited to hear that you are coming to the family reunion. Also, we had 10 puppies the other night!! 5 boys and 5 girls and Sierra is doing well.
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