First Grandmother Inspires

“I’m sitting behind Michelle Obama’s mother in Chapel.” 

The words read like a whispered text message on my cell phone screen.  It was from my granddaughter, Jai, a student at Howard University in Washington, DC.

I was rushing to Sunday morning service at Galilee – late once again since it was already after 11 am when I pulled out of the driveway.

Still, seeing my granddaughter’s message, as soon as I could I aimed my vehicle into the nearest curbside parking spot.  I couldn't wait to know more about her exciting information. 

It was the exact kind of experience I envisioned for Jai upon learning Howard was a first choice as she submitted applications for college admission.  Her mother is a graduate of Cornell University and I graduated from the University of Arkansas in Pine Bluff but Howard U was my first choice for Jai.   I kept it to myself, but loved thinking of her living in Washington during the historic years when America's first black president would lead our country.  While he and his family resided at their new address - The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue  - my granddaughter would be at Howard University, accessible to all the good Washington DC has to offer.  Now here my first grandchild was, in church on a Sunday morning, along side the nation’s First Grandmother, Marian S. Robinson.  Fabulous!

All at once Jai is winding down her third year on Howard's campus.  Her text messages and Facebook posts keep friends and family apprised of the challenges and accomplishments of lengthy days and it seems to me, too many sleepless nights as she seriously tackles her college experience.  Among other activities, she is one of the Chapel Assistants with Howard’s non-denominational Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel.  Worshipping regularly in the Chapel, I’m proud of her unwavering faith and attention to spiritual growth.

Jai texted family this picture of herself and a fellow Chapel Assistant with the nation’s First Grandmother.  

Thank you Mrs. Robinson for choosing to worship with the students and staff at Howard University. Your visit and the photo opportunity have given much joy to this grandmother and her family.  I am grateful.