This Will Be a Very Merry Christmas
Photo credit: Artiise Photography
This Christmas, I am thinking of my grandmother and how proud she would be of my Gambrell family of four. My grandmother, Bessie Simpson, born April 5, 1912, an honors alumna of Smith College (one of the college’s first Black graduates), Eastern Michigan University, and Howard University, a classic pianist, who spoke multiple languages and more is my everything. Her legacy will not only live through me, but also through my children. I pray that my children and grandchildren will know her through me, as she’s the epitome of beauty, intelligence, grace, courage and success.
I’ve had many titles and accolades throughout my life, Board member, Trustee, Chief Officer, Vice President, Global Director, etc., but not of it compares to the title of being a mother to Jeffrey Michael Gambrell II (#BabyGambrell) and Galia Gabé Gambrell (#GigiGambrell).
#GigiGambrell at four months old
My family is my absolute pride and joy! Everything that I do, I wish to make my children proud and moreover, make their lives easier. I want them to love God and live with integrity and grit. I strive to teach them everything that I do know and inspire them to learn things that I still do not know.
This Christmas, as the tree will be filled with all types of gifts, just as my childhood Christmas trees were every single year, I want them to know that the material things are fun, but not necessary, and what the holiday season is truly about is being more like Christ, learning his word and promises and loving family, because life is short.
At age 35, which is still so young, what I know for sure is that the holiday season is important, taking a break is equally significant and “family” has nothing to do with blood, but rather those who love you unconditionally and are committed to your happiness and success.
As I send my annual Christmas cards and reach out for end of year touch bases, I am satisfied and renewed by those who have become family over the years. Those who were in attendance on my wedding day (#GambrellsNY2LA), those who listen whenever I call, who stop their normal routine to be present in my life, who never miss a birthday rather it is mine or my children’s, all of those who truly make the Gambrells a priority, all four of us.
As the sleigh bells are ringing, I am listening to God’s music and voice. I am dancing with joy, excitement and anticipation of 2023 and beyond. I am honored to watch my children grow, to have time to nurture them and for all pivotal moments to come. The very best thing ever, is knowing that the best is yet to come.
Happy holidays, all! May you remember the reason for the season. May you be reminded of those who set the path for your success and those who love you unconditionally. May you be reminded that whoever you’re, someone is listening and watching in awe in how you do it all, and know that the best is yet to come.
God Bless & Merry Christmas!
Xoxo ~ Gabrielle
