Now and Then

I’ve been thinking, lately, about things a grandma can do for her children and grandchildren. Lots of hugs and a few cookies aren’t what I mean. I mean things that only a grandparent can do. Like remembering the past and passing it on. I’m the only one left who can remember my past and my husband’s past. I’m writing our family history, but word of mouth is important, too. Sometimes, I tell about how things were so different when I was young, and how things were different when their parents were young, too.
The grandchildren seem to really enjoy the stories. They often ask me to tell them about the olden days. Their parents have very little time to reminisce, but I have a lot of time.

There is a very good precedent for passing important events and family history from generation to generation; The Bible is full of instructions to tell the next generation about their forefathers and about their God. The time came when everything was written, but in the beginning it was all word of mouth. The records in the Bible and the long genealogies tell us that Jesus fulfilled all the Messianic prophecies. Our pasts tell us a lot about who we are today, too. I sometimes see myself and wish I didn’t. I’m better at seeing their father in them, but that’s good.

Another thing grandparents can do, is encourage. We should always praise when praise is deserved, and not just silently approve. They need to hear the words. Self-esteem is so important for young people today. This world has so many temptations that can hurt them that they need to love themselves enough to say no, because they don’t want to hurt themselves. Always tell them what a good choice they’ve made, that you’re proud of them, and that they’re special to you. Be sure to voice the words and not just think them. Children know the difference between real praise and just saying words. Other children, besides yours, can use some recognition too. Tell them you’ve noticed them and see the surprise on their faces. Always try to praise those who are doing good things.

Grandma Bee