Visiting Grandma while a student at BYU, Grandma asked my ideas about some national and local political issues. Completely absorbed in my college cocoon I was oblivious about any of the goings on in the world and void of opinion. Disappointed Grandma let me know that when queried identically, my then high school drop out cousin had presented thoughtful responses and educated opinions.


Obviously a college student should be a student of the world and intellectually curious about its events.


Intellectually curious herself Grandma is a modern woman, probably more so than any of her daughters or maybe even granddaughters. Born in rural southern Utah in 1917 opportunities for women were few and expectations limited. But Grandma didn't let geography and circumstance stunt her education.


Grandma has always been a reader and particularly an avid follower of politics. An independent thinker, she makes up her own mind and doesn't follow the crowd if she disagrees. For many in Utah, George W. Bush might as well have received his presidential office from the church. To disagree with his decisions is seen as somewhat heretical. Testimony and commitment to the gospel can be suspect if one questions Brother Bush's policies.


Yet though a staunch Republican, Grandma has been vocal about her opposition to Bush's policies particularly concerning the war in Iraq. A frequent contributor to the Republican party Grandma let them know she wasn't happy with the decisions of party leadership and didn't plan to donate when she received a solicitation call. The fundraiser probably thought a woman in her late eighties was set in her ways and a shoe in for a contribution. Not Grandma. She continues to evaluate and consider each new situation and then make up her mind.



I can only hope that I will be able to maintain such an agile mind if I make it to age 80, let alone 90. Happy Birthday Grandma!



Love,

Amy