Living History

A fact of modern life is we're all so mobile. We don't think twice about moving across the country, or the world, for school or work. In the decade since I graduated university, I've lived in three cities in two countries. Of course, there are pros and cons to this mobile lifestyle. My circle of friends (at least those I actually see with any regularity) changes with each move. I've met some great friends, and I've left some great ones behind.

This mobility also affects family. Just as we adopt new friends in each city, some of us also adopt new family as we go. A friend of mine has a husband from Nebraska. Her husband's parents have essentially adopted a young couple and that couple's son. They babysit and occasionally spend holidays with that young family.

Just this past summer, I came across the organization ElderFriends. ElderFriends introduced me to Yan nai nai, or grandma Yan. Yan nai nai has no children and was an only child. I visit nai nai each Tuesday after work. Nai nai is 100 years old. It's not an exaggeration to say she's living history. Born in mainland China, she witnesses the war with Japan, the rise of the PRC, and so much else. She was born at a time when the Chinese bound the feet of their young girls. Nai nai has so many stories to tell, but just no granddaughter to listen. I'm honored to serve as her granddaughter here in Seattle.