L. J. Bowen was my grandfather; he is greatly loved and missed. He has been on my mind lately because of my grandmother's decline and admittance to a nursing home. He loved her more than anything in this world. (even when she was not so loving) He was patient, quiet, hardworking, funny, a great cook, loving, and strong.


My mother was extremely close to him and took his death very hard. Even more than ten years later she cries and misses terribly. He worked nights and he was the one she came home to and saw afterschool. They had a special bond, because their spirits and temperaments are similar. It was from him that she learned to cook, pray, work hard, and hold and cherish family even when they do wrong.

I wish I would have listened more, sat still and really listened to him. His wisdom was quiet but great. He knew how to fish and I never wanted to go. His silly face and red vest are things I will always remember. Thoughts of the death and the past, lead to thoughts of my grandmother passing as her health declines. I know that he will be so glad to see her. :)

Lord, help me to spend more time with the ones that I love. Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and my dear parents. If you see fit Lord allow my parents to live long and happy lives filled with respect and much LOVE.