ASSEMBLE THE VILLAGE

It is aptly said that it takes a village to raise a child. The larger the Village, the better the chance that a child creates more meaningful options for themselves. When a child sees many diverse options, it goes so far as to help them see some of themselves in various people, especially if they know those people who Love and Care about them.

It creates solid and fertile ground for them to grow. As Grandparents, we can foster the best for our Grandkids. One of the ways this can happen is by taking on the role of binding the family by our shared goal of “What is best for the Child.”

Some ten years ago, my big Sister and I took a trip to Cincinnati, Ohio, to see our family. These were magic trips. For 6 hours each way, we never even turned on the radio or looked at our phones. We just ran through the entire family and caught each other up on the news. This prompted an idea that I still do today. Our goal was to keep our family from going the way of most busy families and losing touch with each other. I write what I call the “Family Newsletter” each Sunday morning. If you are a mathematician, that is 500 correspondences to the family. Counting nieces, nephews, and a few adopted family members, the list has grown to 5 dozen people.

This in no way, except that it has accomplished our mission, resembles anything fancy. I usually go on about some neat thing that happened to me or a family member. Last week it was my Granddaughter graduating from the North Carolina School of the Arts, complete with many pictures.

I then do birthdays replete with pictures to introduce the family to the “growing” family. I usually philosophize a bit (Editorial privilege) and then share a “Nugget of Wisdom,” a quote from someone much wiser than me.

I am pleased and amazed that many years later, I get many comments that tell me someone is still reading this blab.

I know some of my Grandkids read this if only to see if their name and recent accomplishment made the family news.

This is just my way of assembling the Village. I hope you find your way to take on this critical family role.

Thanks for being a Caring Grandparent.