Page 69 - Life Legacy Project

Positivity Juanita Beard
"Get up tired, go to bed more tired. I guess that’s why they call it retired!" That what my grandmother said to me during our interview. At age 58 she is still moving like a 20-year-old. Always there to help out, and always has the time to smile. It’s something that she interprets into her life, her positivity and happiness just flow into other people as she walks by. I am nominating my grandmother, Juanita Beard, to be part of this life legacy project because she is intelligent, loving, and she is one of the most astonishing women I have ever known.
Throughout life, my grandmother has done quite a few things. And had many grand experiences throughout her time. She is special to me because ever since I was very little she has been a big role model not just for me, but for my sister, mom, and dad. She helped my mom take care of my sister and I before we could talk, and she raised my dad into the person he is now. As a child, my grandmother moved a lot. She never stayed in the same school till 9th grade. Before then she moved schools around 1-3 times a year. As an adult, my grandmother had many jobs. During our interview, she said "I wanted a horse but I never got one. I wanted to be a singer but I never did that. I wanted to be a flight attendant but ended up working in a refinery.” Even though she never got her dream job the experiences that she gained during her jobs were helpful.
My grandma has made impacts, on many people's lives, some ways that she has done so are that whenever someone at her R.V. park needs help with something, or needs her to watch or fix something, she is always willing to help them. When I went to see her over spring break, the people at the park told me countless stories of how she helped them with things like watching their homes and bringing them their mail, and groceries. One thing that I really admire my grandma for is that she never really gets angry with me, and she has confidence that I could only dream of having. Another thing that I admire my grandma for is that she socializes with the motto “Kill them with kindness.” My grandma has learned about “how important education is.” She told me that it was something that she knew more when she was younger. When I asked her what her message for future generations was, she told me something that I didn't really expect, but something that is very important. “ Never borrow money, if you have to or need to for a home or car that's ok, but never buy credit. Always save more than half your money and never ever go broke. My first loan was for a car and I paid that off in 1 year. My parents taught me to manage my money, and I am happy that they did.” When my grandma told me this, I really realized the importance of money.
I am honoring my grandma for the Life Legacy Project because she is she is smart, kind, and she is one of the most amazing people I have ever known. My grandmother is just plain great. Even though I don't get to see her a lot she is always a part of my life, even if I get frustrated. I really love my grandma and I hope to see her more often after high school. She will always be a part of my life. Love you, grandma!
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