Attribute #14 - Graciousness

Ethel Lillian Martin Beckstrand

1906 - 1984

Graciousness: Courtesy, benevolence, kindness; mercy and compassion

Psalms 111:4
He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the Lord is gracious and full of compassion. 

This is the perfect scripture to describe Grandmother Beckstrand, because I will always remember her wonderful works. These works are both tangible (afghans, scarves, and plum pudding) and intangible (vocal solos, organ accompaniment, and Relief Society lessons). She personified this thought from Thomas S. Monson: "The desire to lift, the willingness to help, and the graciousness to give come from a heart filled with love."

I couldn't find a previously written post, which surprised me, but my very first Relief Society lesson as a married woman was taught by Grandmother Beckstrand. (While on our honeymoon, we made a spur of the moment decision to attend their ward.) I don't remember the lesson, but I do remember feeling welcomed, both at church, and then afterwards at their home for a dinner of scrambled eggs and toast. Did you know graciousness is one of the hallmarks of a good teacher? I hadn't really thought about it, but Elder Loren C. Dunn suggested it was, along with testimony, scriptures and prayer. That knowledge should come in handy as we adjust to next year's new church schedule.

1972 with her posterity

This grandmother also loved Christmas. We would gather each Christmas Eve for dinner, followed by a family program of some sort (the year my dad and uncles acted out "A Christmas Carol" was particularly memorable) and then open gifts. Each of the presents was wrapped beautifully and with great care, but they were given with even more care and graciousness and love.

1977 - the year of the hats and scarves

The nativity set I inherited from Grandmother, which she supposedly painted herself.

Last year's attribute - Compassion (It fits right in today!)