NO GRANDPARENTS’ RIGHTS WITHOUT GRANDPARENTS’ RESPONSIBILITIES

In some of my conversations with my Grandkids, I have realized that some of my thinking may be based on outdated information (I was born in 1944). I listen intently to what my now teen Grandchildren think about what is going on in their lives. I will say that I have enough wisdom not to say things like, “When I was a kid we walked 5 miles to school in a blizzard and it was uphill all the way”. Fortunately, I have become a much better listener than a talker regarding our meaningful conversations. I am honored that they take time from their busy lives to share what is going on in their worlds.

In my effort to “Meet them where they are,” I have vowed to listen to all points of view with an open mind. I have even…………wait for it………watched some Tik-Tok videos in this effort. I am pleased to say that no permanent harm has come to me by this open approach. The fantastic thing is that I have affirmed my belief that the best way to learn, especially in this polarized atmosphere, is to listen for what I have in common with people’s views rather than pouncing on what I can’t entirely agree with. I do this by regularly seeking out and listening to people I don’t usually agree with. As an aside, it is a real teaching moment when I tell these kids that this is my approach. It invites them to do the same.

One day a couple of weeks ago, I was listening to an interview of a very outspoken personality that I am 100% opposed to philosophically, being interviewed by a credible TV personality, and there it was. I heard him say something that resonated with me and my beliefs. I will leave the names out of this article, but what he said is essential to my point. He said, “There are no rights without responsibility.”

This is something that I have been trying to drive home in my books and hundreds of articles on Grandparents’ Rights issues. I have become weary of the thousands of stories about Grandparents who don’t get to see their Grandkids often enough. These Caring Grandparents want answers as to what they can do and, please don’t shoot the messenger, but the responsibility rests on their shoulders to find a way around this mountain since there are no tunnels through it. This area is primarily devoid of fairness, but that is the way it is. Some techniques help, but the initiative and responsibility are ours. The good news is that these beautiful creatures we call Grandchildren are worth all the effort and time we invest in them.

Thank You for being a Caring Grandparent.