Every few years, a powerful winter storm hits the South, specifically Texas. The most recent winter deep freeze, which occurred in Feb. 2021, left millions of Texans without power, including Texarkana residents. This week, a similar situation occurred, but on a nationwide scale. With over 30 states under winter weather alerts, over 190 million people feel the immense impact of snow and ice.

This year, the snow and ice meant something more for my family than just fun in the cold and school cancellations. In December 2025, my paternal grandpa moved in with my family in the United States. 

Ever since I learned about the potential winter storm, I kept telling my grandpa that he might get to see it. When Jan. 24 came, and the wintry mix began to fall, my family and I showed my grandpa all the snow, and he was amazed. Although he is in his 70’s, this storm marked his first time seeing the snow, leaving him in a state of utter amazement regarding God’s creation and grateful to be experiencing this once-in-a-lifetime event with his family.

Seeing my grandpa enjoy the snow and ice reminded me of the importance of sharing experiences. Finding things to connect over with my grandpa was difficult because of a partial language barrier and generational differences, but sharing more of the culture and environment I am a part of allowed us to bond more. It was truly an honor to share my knowledge with my grandpa.

12 years ago, my family immigrated from Lagos, Nigeria, to the United States. According to my parents, we spent a lot of time together when I was younger because I was the first granddaughter on both sides of my family, and my grandfather loved seeing me. 

One core memory I share with my grandfather is heavily centered around our phone calls, because he would sing me the song that contained all my names from my naming ceremony. A tradition among many Nigerians, especially the Yoruba people (which I am a part of), is to give a child several names in addition to their legal name. The song consists of names that express gratitude to God and prayers for my future. My grandpa singing this song to me symbolizes his love for me, and serves as a reminder of my birth and the person I am becoming.

Sharing this experience with my grandpa and the rest of my family made me appreciate his presence so much more. I had gotten hurt out in the snow, and he truly comforted me in a way that made me feel his love. I am proud to have my grandfather by my side, and I hope for the beauty of new beginnings and a bright future for us.