Beginnings. The older you get, the more rare they become …
Endings are too often on my mind. I pray for new beginnings.
Grandparents, do yourself a favor and watch this 3-minute video. It’s one of our favorites:
This video challenges us to think about beginnings and endings. Can’t most of us identify with that grandfather’s thoughts as he anticipates and celebrates the birth of his first grandchild?
For most of us, the idea of legacy is on our minds almost constantly. We know our time on earth is limited, and we want to make the most of the opportunities we have with our children and grandchildren.
And yes, there’s a good chance we’ll be thinking about mistakes and regrets from the past. There are things we messed up earlier in life, when we had less experience, wisdom, and perspective on life than we do now.
And it seems that even I get another chance. A fresh start.
And so grandchildren bring us a strong sense of new beginnings …
We all know there’s a lot of complexity in today’s families, and being a grandparent isn’t all laughter and rainbows. Issues with our grown-up children—and sometimes issues with the grandkids—can have a strong influence on our opportunities and our satisfaction as grandparents. This video captures that quite well.
The best we can do is stay faithful and do our best to reconcile issues from the past and build strong connections today and going forward. Remind them often of your love and commitment.
Also, consider writing your grandkids a letter—no matter what their age and situation. Share those important thoughts about what’s most important to you, what you want them to remember, the virtues and values that have made you who you are.
Even if there’s a lot to overcome from the past, find ways to be intentional about sharing your heritage and leaving a strong legacy.
