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Summary

The author reflects on the emotional significance of a mysterious metal stick inherited from their grandmother, which evokes fond memories and a sense of connection despite her often hurtful behavior.

Abstract

The author has inherited a sewing kit from their grandmother, a woman known for her hurtful comments. Among the items in the kit, a small metal stick stands out, as it evokes unexpectedly positive memories of the grandmother. Despite its unknown purpose and the author's lack of recollection of the grandmother using it, the object has become a cherished memento that the author believes connects them to their grandmother's spirit. The author keeps the stick on their desk, hoping that knowing its purpose might unlock further memories. The article also includes links to Medium's "Be Open" writing challenges, inviting writers to share personal stories and connect with readers on a more personal level.

Opinions

  • The author has mixed feelings about their grandmother, acknowledging her ability to be hurtful even when attempting to be kind.
  • The metal stick, although its function is unknown, has become a symbol of the author's love for their grandmother and serves as a reminder of her.
  • The author does not consider the stick a talisman but rather a memento, as it reminds them of their grandmother and the good times they shared.
  • There is a sense of curiosity and a desire to understand the significance of the metal stick, with the hope that it might reveal more about the grandmother's life and habits.
  • The author values the sense of connection and protection the stick provides, feeling as though their grandmother is watching over them.
  • The inclusion of the "Be Open" writing challenges suggests the author endorses the idea of

Remembering My Grandmother

When my grandmother passed away years ago I was given her sewing kit because I was the “crafty “ one in the family. Honestly I rarely use it because most of my memories of her are not good. She had an amazing ability to be hurtful even when she was trying to be nice. Really I think she just didn’t have a filter and said whatever came to mind.

However, once when I was looking through the sewing kit I found a small metal stick thing. It is about 3 inches long and just a few millimeters wide at its widest point and tapers down to a slightly sharp point, it doesn’t feel hollow.

In an attempt to find out what this thing is and what it is used for I have searched the internet and asked family members with no luck so far.

What I have discovered is: When I hold this little piece of metal I am reminded of good memories I have of my grandmother and I remember how much I love and miss her.

The odd thing for me is I don’t recall ever seeing her use this little stick or seeing it at all for that matter. Not sure how it became the thing to connect us. I don’t think it can be called a talisman which according to the Merriam-Webster dictionary is:

  1. an object held to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good fortune.

2. something producing apparently magical or miraculous effects.

It seems to me a memento is more likely at least according to the Merriam-Webster definition which says a memento is:

Something that serves to warn or remind.

This odd little stick does help me remember my grandmother. I feel connected to her and a little bit like she is watching over me to make sure I am okay. I keep it on my desk so I see it whenever I sit down to work.

The search for what it is continues mostly because I am convinced if I knew what it was I might remember her using it.

Be Open Says;

Family
Memories
Memento
History
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