Grandparent: Another Name for Love

As often happens after I’ve shared the message of Leave Nothing Unsaid, people tell me stories about letters that have impacted their lives.
 
It happened again yesterday.
 
Numerous touching stories were recounted about letters that people cherished. And every story further strengthened my passion about the importance of written words of affirmation and encouragement.
 
But two stories in particular touched my heart, and both were about letters from grandparents.
 
One man shared that his mother had recently died, and that his nine-year old daughter had a letter from her grandmother that she repeatedly read and reread. A simple letter, providing comfort and encouragement as a lasting reminder of a grandparent’s love.
 
Another told me of letters he had received while serving our nation during the Vietnam War. And of all the letters that were penned to him, the ones that meant the most were the letters from his grandmother.
 
If you are a grandparent, please take note:
 
You matter. And your written words matter. A lot.

Being a grandparent is a unique joy and blessing. Although I’m not part of the “club” yet, I have many friends who are. And I’ve heard, again and again, about how special it is to be a grandparent.
 
What’s a grandparent’s #1 job? To love.
 
You love with your presence and your presents. You love with hugs and kisses. You love with a listening ear. You love with cuddles. You love with time spent together. You love by making cookies. You love with traditions. You love with stories. You love by attending games, recitals and graduations.
 
Your love for your grandchild gives them a tremendous sense of security.
 
And you are not going to live forever. Yes, they will have memories. But do they have anything in writing from you?
 
If you are fortunate enough to be a grandparent, please make it a goal for 2016 to write a letter to each of your grandchildren. Express your love for them. Tell them the specific things you cherish about them. Their special gifts and talents.  What brings them to life. Recount some of your favorite memories together. Share the things you hope they’ll always remember. Give them one or two of the best pieces of wisdom you have learned.
 
Your written words to your grandchildren will outlive you. And much like a blanket provides comfort to a small child, your affirming letter will be an emotional security blanket to your grandchild throughout their life.
 
Do it for your grandchildren. Do it for yourself.
 
 It’s a beautiful and lasting way to express your love.