I have always been told that I ’m a strong person. I don’t mean in the physical sense, but in the emotional sense. People say I have a strong willpower and when I set my mind to something I follow it through. This is more than likely from my grandfather. He always inspired me to stay strong and never give up. My grandfather reminds me of the song ‘Carry on my Wayward Son’ by Kansas. This song says, “Carry on my wayward son, there'll be peace when you are done. Lay your weary head to rest, don’t you cry no more.”

My granddad believes things will always get better over time.  Even if things look negative all around you, just give it time. To always keep your head up high. When my grandfather got sick last year things were hard. I listened to this song whenever I felt down. It helped me remember that things do get better, even when it looks pretty dreadful. Whenever things in life get tough, I try to remember these things he has taught me over the years.
It was a late August morning when  my granddad got the call to go to the hospital for surgery. It was a truly miserable day. The doctor explained that the infection in his arm spread to his spine and lower back. The infection my grandfather has is a rare condition. So rare in fact, there’s only one doctor in the whole world that knows the correct procedure to perform. It’s known as vascular malformation with tumors. My heart was beating so hard it felt like it would come out of my chest. My vision was blurred and my cheeks wet and slick. I gave my granddad a hug before they took him back and didn’t want to let go. Once they took him I went outside and fell to my knees begging the Lord to heal him. My mom came out later, what seemed like just a few minutes. She sat beside me on the bench and wrapped her arms around me.

“You’ve been out here for over an hour sweetie. Aren’t you freezing yet?” Her concern showing, bringing me back to reality. I was numb, from the cold and be scared for my grandfather’s life.

“Yeah, but I don’t want to go back in there right now.” I tried explaining to her. Nodding her head she wrapped her jacket around me. I could see the tears shining in her eyes. The worry and hurt pouring out in waves. Giving me one last hug she went back inside.

The whole family had come to the hospital and was waiting in the waiting room for the news. It was too dreary to be in there. It also hurt because we knew he was in pain and something was wrong for about a month now. But no one was around at that time. Now they’re all here sick with worry. Outside the sky was clear with just a few cirrus clouds. The rays from the sun shined down bringing the little warmth to my body that I had. A little bit later I felt better, stronger. I put my earbuds in and turned on my music. Slowly my vision cleared and I could feel my frown slowly turning upwards. I knew we were all going to be okay, it may take time but we will get there. This experience will bring us all together and make us stronger. Looking back today, we all are closer and stronger. We take care of each other and know how to handle things better. I’m glad my grandfather is recovering and is back home with us now. It’s as if a weight has been lifted off our shoulders.