What Can GRANDparents Do?
By Rebecca Wheat
To say that these are challenging times is a profound understatement. Grandparents and parents from all religions, races, and political persuasions, are concerned about how to promote civility, compassion, kindness, and fairness in our,children and grandchildren. Be heartened- as an involved and thoughtful grandparent you can be a terrific model.
Purpose- modeling your purpose and passion goes a long way in encouraging it in children. Do you help the food bank, the local animal shelter , or your religious denomination? Can you involve your grandchildren? Whatever your purpose, you are an important model for your grandchildren. The happiest people I know have a profound sense of purpose. Each day they wake up with a vision of something meaningful to do.
Modeling- You are always a model. When you show kindness, compassion, and find ways to build people up and not gossip, these lessons are being inculcated in your grandchildren.
Speaking Up
It is so important to speak up when you hear people being shamed or embarrassed on Facebook or in person.Speak up. Explain that bullying behavior is never O.K.
Gratitude
Yes, these are challenging times, yet we have so much to be grateful for. We live in a democracy where we can vote, express opinions, and receive an education. Research on gratitude has shown that gratitude is an important element in creating happiness. Expressing blessings for small and large blessings is a powerful example for children.
In these times, as grandparents we must be beacons of stability. Kindness, perseverance, integrity and compassion never go out of style. As grandparents we can light the way, and have a huge impact.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR – Rebecca Wheat
I am a grandparent of six, and a former principal, who has authored four books. I am deeply concerned that we all promote kindness, compassion, and civility in our children and grandchildren.
