322. Claiming That Sanders’ Name
My grandmother (Granny), Irene, had nine children. One of those children was Adalyne. Norma Davis was the daughter of Adalyne, and Paula Davis was the daughter of Norma.
When Paula was in her teens and complaining about the unfairness of life, Norma took hold of Paula’s shoulders and said seriously to her, “Remember—you are a Sanders. And Sanders women are strong women!”
Paula now says, “Mom (Norma) embodied that same strength and I learned at her knee. When I was older, Mom talked about Great Grandmother’s life and her strength. I felt it was a responsibility to be strong and stand up for myself.”
I can imagine Paula straightening herself and living into the Sanders’ strength.
