My grandma was a very beautiful woman. She had the looks and she had the aura. I know it from her old pictures. Those very old black and white pictures on paper that have turned yellow by now. What a bride she was. My grandpa looks very proud on her side.

I never saw her stunning youth beauty. How could I? My only memories of her are from her old ages. She was still beautiful in a different way; with how she carried herself. If I had never seen her old pictures, I would have never known how she had looked like when she was 18 years old.

Seeing my grandma’s youth connects me with my mom and aunts on a different level. When I look at them, I can better see which physical features of them visibly come from my grandma. By extension same logic applies also to me.

A few months ago I saw a message on Facebook which was about a photography exhibition for women above 40 years old that was currently being planned for 2024. They were looking for applicants who may want to participate in the selection. I remember having clicked on the apply button, instinctively without even knowing why. Then I completely forgot about it; until I got a message one day that I was selected.

When I got the message my first thought was, what have I done? And my second thought was I have no time for this now. I was almost about to decline, and then I remembered my grandma. If had never seen both her youth and her old age, would I feel the special connection I feel now for her and my roots? I accepted the invite.

Wonderful Melissa made her wonderful artwork and she made me feel beautiful while she patiently and passionately took my pictures. I will never forget the experience. She gave me unique memories and the hope that the offsprings of my family might connect with me, with themselves and their roots in the same special way when I am long gone.