Inspiration in a Frame

Inspiration(n): 2. A person or thing that moves the intellect or emotions or prompts action or invention.

The above definition of inspiration from "The Free Dictionary" brings forth the name of Lillian Grisso, who was my Great, Great Aunt. She was a missionary in India and an author.

My Great Grandma Pearl (Grisso) Figert told my Great Aunt ReBerta that I reminded her of Aunt Lillian. Grandma Figert parted with the photo when I said that I would frame it. I framed this photograph in the late 80's. She has had a place of honor on my desk since.

I am now in search of her books and writings because I would like to learn more about the woman, who served others.

I found the blow writing in "Fifty Years in India, 1895-1945: 

"When Wilbur Stover planted the banyan tree in the front yard of the first mission house at Bulsar, India, he said, 'I like a banyan tree. It's the symbol of the church.'

...The banyan is called the ;tree with a thousand trunks. The great number of shoots sent  down from the branches become additional trunks. A large tree will cover a great area. The largest banyan in India has a main trunk thirteen feet in diameter. It has two hundred thirty other trunks as large as oak trees and over three thousand smaller ones. At one time nine thousand people stood in the shade of it…"

I equate this banyan tree to senior living industry because the industry continues to grow and serve others by branching out.

I also personally believe the banyan tree is symbolic of life. Where are you rooted? And how have you branched out?

The photograph of my Great, Great Aunt Lillian Grisso in the frame continues to inspire.