My Grandparents' Home Renovation

When I think about my grandparents and the quaint and urban Atlanta brownstone that has been called “home” by so many, I am reminded of a quote by Maya Angelou that reads, “The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned.”  George and Mary Henderson have spent the majority of their lives being a father and mother to a numerous amount of children and grandchildren.  For so many years, this house has been a safe haven for us all. Over time, my grandparents have filled this home with so much love and that energy can be felt in every corner and every nook and cranny.  There is something about being on the other side of that front door that has made us feel as if no harm can come our way and nothing short of righteousness can penetrate these walls.  Unfortunately, this beloved home has lost its ability to remain a safe haven because of its dilapidated and dangerous condition.  From cleaning houses to cabinetry, my grandparents have toiled for so long. My entire life, I have watched them give so much of themselves and never expecting anything in return. My grandfather, affectionately known as Papa is often referred to as a gentle giant. He stands at 6 feet and 5 inches tall but he is soft, nurturing, and protective of his children. My aunt Mechell mentioned that she cannot recall him ever missing a day of work or even showing up late. He worked hard at the same company for 38 years and never complained. Grandma, sometimes called “Moma” is so full of wisdom. She has been teaching me lessons about life for as long as I can remember. Her influence is so strong that many of us often consider what she would think or how she would feel when it comes to our own personal decision making. She is one of the reasons why so many of us try to stay on the right track and be upstanding individuals. She’ll never leave you without a smile and an encouraging word. When she was able, Grandma would wash the entire family’s clothes in the bath tub without making a fuss. In her neighborhood, she has cooked and taken food to those that have lost loved ones and when she worked in her yard, she would clean up her whole street. I often wonder how they manage to spread themselves so thin yet remain so full of courage, hope, perseverance, and strength. I know that they’ve struggled and have had their fair share of misfortune but they never express grief or despair. They are driven by their unwavering belief in God. Their main priority was raising happy and healthy children and providing them with a comfortable atmosphere to flourish while instilling within us all the importance of having morals, values, and standards. Their spirit is contagious. It’s like food for the soul and anyone who comes in contact with them can feel their impact well after the encounter. They have been cherished members of this community since 1974. For many of us, this home  holds some very fond memories. It is decorated with laughter and tears. It is a treasure box of first words, first steps, card games with cousins, warm hugs, the aroma of poke salad and preserves, stories from yesteryear, family gatherings, and the sound of toy cars scurrying across hardwood floors. My grandparents have made it clear that no matter where we go and how far life takes us, we will always have a home to come back to as long as they are alive. Unfortunately, we are not sure how much longer this home can stand and we are terrified that it could fall apart at any time. They have taken care of us all these years and now it is time for us to take care of them but we can’t do it alone. Please help us give them the house that they so deserve. We are grateful for every donation, large or small. We would like to thank you all so much for your support.