I believe the essence of a true elder lies in their ability to see beyond the surface, to encourage and ignite the spark within us. The grandmother is a keeper of ancient lore, bridging generations, passing down tales as old as time. She is the living library, the guardian of traditions, the storyteller of the family.
The Dagara people of Africa believe that a newborn’s soul is sung into existence and welcomed by the village elders which include the authentic, heart centred grandparents. This ancient wisdom continues to inspire us today, yet is lost within our own cultures wounds.
Last night, we gathered to honour the Grandmother archetype within The Power Of 13 as we draw a close to the training of 2024. We shared stories of our own grandmothers, a tapestry of experiences unfolded—tales of love, family stories, strictness, and the mysterious ways in which they perceived us.
I recall my own paternal grandmother, a woman of striking character. She often hinted at a hidden potential within me. She once gave me a doll with a single, rolling eye, a symbol of the unseen. Recognising my love for trance-dance, she may have glimpsed a spark that I had yet to ignite.
As I prepare to welcome a new life into our family, I’m reminded of the timeless qualities of a nurturing grandmother: patience, presence, and selfless service. These qualities aren’t exclusive to grandmothers; they are the hallmarks of a compassionate leader and a wise heart.
By embracing the wisdom of the ages and nurturing the seeds of future generations, we can cultivate a world filled with love, compassion, and understanding.
Caroline – December newsletter 2024
