Grandparents
A guest post by Robby C. Eversole.
“The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness” (Pro. 16:31 NKJV).
What a great truth! What wisdom and maturity the gray head of the righteous suggests. So much is to be learned from those who bear the frost of many winters. Too often, we do not see things the way that God does (Isa. 55:8-9). We may view those in the older generation as being “Over the hill” and not having much to contribute. Life is what teaches us life’s lessons!
“Grandparent” is a beautiful word. Grandparents have already been around the parenting race track and have learned where the potholes and slick spots are. Many grandparents have learned what not to do as parents. Would it not be better for us to learn from their mistakes, than to make them?
When I was young, going to my grandparent’s for a couple weeks each summer was a highlight of my life. These trips to granny's house produced some of my fondest childhood memories.
I really like what Erma Bombeck said,
“A grandmother will put the sweater on you when she is cold, feed you when she is hungry, and put you to bed when she is tired.”
Dave Barry said about grandparents,
“You feel completely comfortable entrusting your baby to them for long periods of time, which is why most grandparents flee to Florida at the earliest opportunity.”
Grandparents have a tremendous opportunity to help their families by sharing life’s lessons and giving advice and wisdom. Grandparents should never “Stick their noses” where it doesn’t belong, but, should always be ready to contribute to the overall good of the family.
Life can be difficult, but, especially is this true where there is a lack of wisdom. Parents and children should always be interested in the counsel of those who bear the frost of many winters. It is easier and wiser to heed the advice of the wise, than to pay the price of figuring things out by ourselves.
Parents need to take advantage of every resource available in parenting. These include, the Bible, parenting books, seminars, lectureships and grandparents.
If your grandparents are still alive, call them and tell them what they mean to you and thank them for their tireless devotion. If they have already passed from this life, honor their memory by heeding the great lessons of life you learned from them.
Robby C. Eversole preaches for the Pennville Church of Christ in Summerville, Georgia. He is the father of a regular “guest poster” on Centered on Christ - Robby Eversole, Jr. I appreciate his stand for God’s word and his efforts in proclaiming the gospel!
Powerful indeed. I love it especially that I'm now a grandparent.
Great message of wisdom.