grand ma poem about aging

A Grandmother’s Honest Poem About Aging Might Make You Cry

Wanda B. Goines

by Peter Barnes

Wanda B. Goines rose to internet fame at the age of 92. The poem she read was her own creation, “The Gift Wrap and the Jewel,” which her caregiver Kathryn Clausnitzer Wilson captured on camera. And then she posted it in her Facebook wall and captioned “This is the precious lady I am honored to care for. She wrote this poem, “The Gift-Wrap & The Jewel” be blessed! Her name is Wanda B. Goines”

Grand mother Wanda B. Goines aging poem
Grandma Wanda B. Goines

The small woman is seated in a large beige armchair. She is wearing pearl necklaces, an embroidered shirt, and a long, formal black skirt. However, her touching remarks on aging serve as a reminder that what’s inside really matters.

Over 5.2 million people have shared the video. Although it was posted in 2015, it keeps getting more views.

Ms. Goines’ wisdom is based not only on her age, but also on her extensive life experience. She is a mother of eight children, including the well-known an American artist, calligrapher, typographer, printing entrepreneur, and author David Lance Goines. She is a calligrapher and artist in her own right.

When this was being filmed, she was residing in Cave Junction, Oregon. Her entire family enjoyed seeing her become famous for this recitation.


“The Gift Wrap & The Jewel”


I looked in the mirror and what did I see,
but a little old lady peering back at me
With bags and sags and wrinkles and wispy white hair,
and I asked my reflection, “How did you get there?”

You once were straight and vigorous and now you’re stooped and weak,
when I tried so hard to keep you from becoming an antique
My reflection’s eyes twinkled as she solemnly replied,
“You’re looking at the gift wrap and not the jewel inside

A living gem and precious, of unimagined worth
Unique and true, the real you, the only you on earth
The years that spoil your gift-wrap with other things more cruel,
Should purify and strengthen, and polish up that jewel

So focus your attention on the inside, not the out
On being kinder, wiser, more content and more devout
Then, when your gift-wrap’s stripped away your jewel will be set free,
To radiate God’s glory throughout eternity”


Such a long and prosperous life is a gift that each of us should be afforded. In the event that this poem motivates you to make better choices in your life, perhaps sharing it with your friends will do the same.


All the information & photo credit goes to respective authorities. DM for removal please.


Related: Life Story of “Apple Butter Making” Artist, Grandma Moses

Related Articles

Leave a Comment