Wherever We Land

When I think of the word “successful,” the first people who come to mind are my grandmothers. They were remarkable women who raised more than four children in a time when life was anything but easy. Their households were full, not just with family, but with hard work and love. Back then, many men worked in coal mines or furniture factories, yet my grandmothers took on the heavy task of keeping the home running smoothly. Their success was not measured in money or material wealth but in the legacy they left behind.

They taught their children how to work in gardens, a skill that not only put food on the table but also instilled discipline and self-reliance. They passed down the art of cooking from scratch, ensuring that every meal was made with care and a sense of providing for the family. Most importantly, they taught their children to read the Bible, planting seeds of faith and wisdom in the next generation. Knowing the Lord’s word was as essential to them as knowing how to till the soil or prepare a meal. It was their foundation, and it’s a piece of family life I believe is missing today.

In our fast-paced world, where convenience often trumps substance, the lessons my grandmothers passed down are more important than ever. I strive to be as successful as they were, not by today’s worldly standards, but by the values they held dear. As the woman described in the book of Titus, I aim to lead by example, sharing these timeless virtues with my family and others, hoping to leave behind a similar legacy of faith, work, and love. Their success wasn’t just in raising a family—it was in raising a family that knew God’s word and the value of hard work. That’s the success I hold in the highest regard.

I also strive to build on that legacy by incorporating outside activity and teaching my family how to survive in nature. I believe learning to appreciate and live off the land is another key to success, not only in becoming more self-reliant but in understanding and embracing the world God created for us. Whether it’s camping, hiking, or learning outdoor survival skills, these activities allow us to grow closer as a family while gaining the knowledge to thrive in any situation. This connection to nature, combined with the values my grandmothers instilled in me, is my own version of success that I hope to pass on to future generations.