Ellen, Jim, Ray, and Jess Langenfeld
She was known by many names: Mr. Visny’s wife, Wilma, Billie, Mom, Gram. Each name signifies a different role she played, and she loved them all.
I want to reminisce about the two names I knew her by. First, let’s talk about Billie. The mentor, the friend. She was always willing to listen, no matter what was troubling you. She certainly made sure the work crew was taken care of during the Christmas season. Were you warm enough? Were you thirsty? You had to be sure you piled your plate at lunch or you would be questioned about the fullness of your stomach. It didn't matter if she was feeling under the weather or not, her “kids” came first.
In 2009, at least for my family, Billie morphed in to Gram. Though at the time, I didn't know that. I remember the way her eyes lit up when we first brought Ray to see her. The love that she had shined so brightly it could have lit the whole room. However it wasn't until a few years later that I understood the relationship had changed. We were once again up at the farm. Ray was older and I was “introducing” him to Billie and Bob. It was not one of my finer moments because I stumbled over their names. I hadn't thought about what Ray should call them. Should it be Mr. and Mrs. Visny? That seemed too formal and didn't quite roll off my tongue. Billie and Bob certainly didn't feel right, as I wanted Ray to show them the respect they deserved. As my tongue and mouth were tied up arguing with my brain about what name to use, I felt a gentle but firm hand on my shoulder. I turn to see Billie smiling at me. In a very soft voice, she says “It’s Gram.” She then turns to Ray and takes over the introductions I was having so much trouble with. “Hi Raymond. I'm Gram and this is Pop. It is very nice to meet you. Are you going for a walk up on the hill today?” And just like that, another generation was taken into the fold of the Hickory Ridge family.
I wasn't sure how to end this, as this is certainly not an end. It is only the beginning of another adventure. So, I hunted the internet. While the words are not mine, it certainly conveys the sentiment I have about Billie:
I give you this one thought to keep -
I am with you still - I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the sweet uplifting rush,
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not think of me as gone -
I am with you still in each new dawn.
In the words of a very special family, Ta Ta for now, Billie.
Love,
Ellen
Wednesday December 17, 2014 at 9:47 am