Grandma's Hands

Nestled perfectly in Central Louisiana’s Rapides Parish, West of I-71, a weary traveler may wander into Lea’s Lunchroom for a slice of their world-famous pie. Just a stone’s throw away is the teeny speck of a town affectionately known as “The Big Ditch”, where one of the world’s greatest warriors lived. This warrior was Idella Toussaint Stokes. Those in town called her “Miss Idell”, or “Ms. Stokes”. I had the fortune of calling her “Grandma”.

Long before my cousins and I came along, Grandma was busy raising my dad and his two younger brothers. While this is not something that typically stands alone as noteworthy, parents are raising kids every day, it is a feat given she did so as a single parent in the Southern part of the United States during the ‘40s, ‘50s, and ‘60s. In addition to sending her sons to the school built specifically for Black children, Grandma made sure her boys were well cared for by bringing them to their regular dentist and doctor visits. Of course, they were required to enter the buildings through the “colored” entrances. Miss Idell also made sure her boys stayed up with their piano lessons, chores, and Bible study. Despite their shenanigans throughout the years, Grandma’s love, discipline, and tenacity won. Not only did all three boys graduate from high school, they also graduated from of Grambling State University and then went on to careers as educators.

Years after her sons’ college graduations, and before Hurricane Katrina, my cousins and I spent many summer days in the very house where our respective fathers and uncles were raised. During our visits, not only did we get spoiled, but Grandma made sure we had a fully immersive experience! We got to visit with neighborhood kids and always had plenty of money for our walks to the corner store for moon pies and candy. She showed us she could out fish anyone using her cane pole, made sure we prayed before each meal, introduced us to Bruce Lee movies, and sat us down to watch her “stories.” No summer visit would be complete without watching her stories! We got to help with the garden that ran the length of the house, got dressed up to attend Sunday service at Beulah Baptist Church, and waved to EVERYONE who walked, biked, or drove by Grandma’s house. Such is the custom when sitting on the front porch because Grandma knew everyone in town.

Grandma was the epitome of integrity, perseverance, love, respect, and pride. The manner in which she lived her life taught me more than she will ever know. I am confident her prayers are covering me today and can only hope that I can carry on her legacy.

I am inspired by a black woman, I am an inspiring black woman, and WE are Black History.