I am the granddaughter of one of the most influential, inspiring women I've ever known. And, as the oldest of 23 grandchildren (and soon to be 50 great-grandchildren), I had the privilege of giving her a name, which became "Gling" because of a song she would sing when I came to visit. She was my biggest cheerleader and supported me through some very challenging life events. She was also one of the most devout Catholics you'd ever meet.

Tell me you're Catholic without telling me you're Catholic:

• statues of Mary at every turn in her home and office

• weekly front-pew visits to 8:30a Mass

• seven children in 15 years

• religious jewelry that she wore every day

• and, most of all, epic visits to Vatican City

But what stands out the most when I reflect on her faith are the three dogwood trees that she planted in the front yard of every home in which she lived. The trees were symbolic because they represented Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - the blessed Trinity.

Gling visits on occasion when a cardinal crosses my path, and those visits seem to happen just when I need them the most. She continues to encourage me, empower me, and bring a sense of peace only she can give. I feel blessed to be part of who she was and know she'll be with me for the rest of my life and beyond.