by Ricky Doc Sauceda
Psalm 45:17
I will perpetuate your memory through all generations; therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever.
We all have two sets of grandparents. I had only known one in my lifetime due to the untimely deaths of my grandfathers and one of my grandmothers. I had no idea of what my missing grandparents looked or sounded like. I still don't know their voices.
Recently my eldest sister Debbie died. Due to this event I now know the faces of my two Sauceda grandparents. I had learned my Momma's father image at a family reunion back around 1983...one of my relatives presented a photo of my Grandpa Lizzardi.
Being raised by one grandparent is unique. I am very grateful by her mind and faith. She was a tremendous boon to me.
Our identity in life can be a positive or negative thing. That very issue was something that I have always struggled with. I don't want to accept a stereotype due to my bloodline up front. NO.
I want to know who I am up front and truthfully. Regardless of branding by how I look. It is only right.
I have now learned the faces of my three other grandparents. I have faces to go with their names now. I no longer have to wonder or imagine who they were.
Sadly, I am now relegated to remembering my dearly loved and departed sibling. My peaceful sister. The one I never had any kind of issue with.
Momma's family is Native American, Irish, Italian and Spanish. Daddy's family is Native American, French, Italian and Spanish. They all actually knew each other in life. My grandpas were best friends in life.
I have a tremendous love for my family. It surpasses their lifestyles, ways and conduct. I truly believe I have to be this way.
I am glad to know the names of my family: Castro, Holter, Lizzardi, McDonald, Sauceda and Soto. I come from these people. They are my relatives by heritage and relation.
After Momma's daddy died, my Grandma Janie changed his family name to suit her. She went to the grave defending this action. I once asked her about it and she stood firm. It was her sister Katie that revealed this to my Momma.
Now, I am left alive with two sisters. One is very tender hearted and loving but we have had our disagreements in life. The other is very hard to understand and is stone hearted.
Besides them, I have my three children and my grandson who carries my Daddy's family name. I am blessed that God has bestowed a male heir upon my family. So far, only one.
I am not a perfect man. Never will be. I am concerned about how all things will turn out for my family - siblings and all. I want us to be eternally alive in the path and light of Lord Jesus Christ.
That is all that matters to me.