COMMUNICATING vs. CONNECTING

I want to follow up on my last article because it is at the core of adding value to the lives of those we care most deeply for. I recently read a piece I will paraphrase by saying, “We spend a lot of time communicating but not much time connecting.” This is an instructive statement that struck me regarding how I interact with my Grandchildren.

Most of our family interaction falls on a spectrum depending on many factors. Not all interactions can or should be profound. However, all interactions can and should be laced with the intentionality of adding as much value to both parties as possible. I know that is a bit heavy, but please hear me out.

We all spend our days interacting with many people, primarily mechanically. For instance, it is inappropriate to run out your front door and hug the mailman every day. You can, but it is only sometimes appropriate. Yet you appreciate that they bring your mail daily, and you enjoy the service and convenience. Unfortunately, very few leave a present in the mailbox at Christmastime or come to the door now and then to wave a Thank You as the mail is delivered. Such an action, actually such an attitude, adds value to both the giver and the receiver. This value is a giant step in moving Communication to Connection.

Back to our precious Grandkids. What if we start each interaction with them on the same level of intentionality as with our Mailman/Woman? To paraphrase Astronaut Neil Armstrong from 1969, it may be “One small step for Grandpa, One giant leap for Mankind.”

I hope to spur you to think about how you can be an example to your Grandchildren about maximizing your time together by finding ways to add meaning to each interaction. Not one iota of your efforts will go for naught. This is our highest and best as human beings, and what better target of this magic than our Grandchildren?

Thank You for being a Caring Grandparent.