The Greatest Generation Ever

THE GREATEST GENERATION

"The greatest generation was first formed by the Great Depression. They shared everything-- meals jobs, clothing." Tom Brokaw

"We must continue to ensure that the legacy of the greatest generation is preserved and protected so that we can all work to embody the ideals and values of those that came before them." Elise Stefonik

Our Matriarchal Clan

Mary Chatham Kelly (1860 - 1940) born in Michigan

Mary Chatham Kelly was Grandma Aggie and Rene's Mom. She was married to John "Black Jack" Kelly. He passed away in 1914. She was a widow at age 54. 

Mary always made other people feel special! Joan used to talk about how Grandma Kelly would take her to Los Angeles for a birthday outing. Since Joan's birthday was on Nov. 11th,  there would always be flags flying in honor of Veteran's Day. But Grandma Kelly told Joan that the flags were flying to celebrate HER birthday. Joan described Grandma Kelly as a tall beautiful woman with perfect posture, who inspired others to walk the same way!

Mary was an astute business woman. She owned some property in Los Angeles; (supposedly in what is now the downtown business area), but lost it in the Depression. I remember the family lamenting the loss of that valuable property!

Mary had an active mind and was always challenging herself. At age 70, she went to school to learn Spanish, and said the rosary in Spanish every night after that!  

The photo (above) was the model for the gorgeous painting of Mary. That beautiful framed picture graced Rene's home, and is now proudly displayed in Dan's home. 

Some of the characteristics of Mary, and indeed that generation, were determination, grit, fortitude, integrity, love of family, friends and mostly a deep faith. 

Nancy has this inspirational poem in Mary's handwriting that she has framed in her home.  It was Mary's philosophy of how to live!

As You Go Through Life

Don’t look for the flaws as you go through life

And even when you find them,

It is wise and kind to be somewhat blind,

And look for the virtue behind them.

For the darkest night has a hint of light,

Somewhere in the shadows hiding.

It is better by far to hunt for a star,

Than the spots on the sun abiding.

The current of life runs ever a way,

To the bosom of God’s great ocean.

Don’t set your form against the river’s course,

And think to alter it’s motion.

Don’t waste a curse on the universe,

Remember it lived before you.

Don’t butt at the storm with your puny form,

But bend and let it go o’er you.

The world will never adjust itself,

To suit your whims to the letter.

 Something must go wrong your whole life long,

And the sooner you know it, the better.

It is folly to fight with the infinite,

And go under at last in the wrestle.

The wise man shapes into God’s plans

As water shapes into the vessel.

To be continued tomorrow!

LYM,

Reenie