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As I watch my 2 sweet grands grow, my mind often drifts toward their futures and what I would put in a letter to my grandchildren. What are the things I want my grandkids to know?
There are things that I believe will help them be their very best selves.
Now at 3 and 6 years of age, they aren’t ready for the full dose of these thoughts, however, the time I have spent thinking through them will allow me to begin to share age-appropriate mini versions of these things I want my grandkids to know.
I’m sharing them here as a letter to my grandchildren, not because they are the ‘right’ selection of thoughts (there are many many valid hopes for our grandkids, right?).
But I am hoping that they inspire you to take some time and think through what you want your grandkids to know and maybe write a “letter to my grandchildren” of your own.
The things that have the little bits of you that you hope to pass down.
What a treasure this exercise can be for our grandkids!
A Letter to My Grandchildren
“My message to you, my dear grandchild, I am so proud of who you are becoming, and know that your personality, talent, and dedication will take you far. As you travel further into the future, I hope that you will find this collection of “things I want my grandkids to know’ to be encouraging. I love you, Amma”
Small Beginnings Lead to Big Things
Papa and I were young adults before social media and the influence of well…all the influencers.
You have grown up with images of what can look like success and perfection from your early childhood days on and it seems there is no slowing it all down.
Some of our favorite memories are the ways we started small.
Scrimping and saving for the car that ran a little better than the last, learning how to prepare meals on a budget, and even learning to use contact paper as an interior design element.
READ: Let’s Talk About Money With Our Grandkids
These ‘start small’ times are irreplaceable as they developed in us the planning, creativity, and perseverance that we would need (and continue to need!) to face the unexpected things that life brings our way.
Be a Life Long Learner
There is nothing like the habit of being a learner to keep your mind refreshed!
You will never be too young, too old, or too experienced to learn something new.
Strive to read and pursue new interests at every stage of your life.
It’s OK to Change Your Mind
While my mind is set on the big things in my life, there are many areas where a change of mind is such a good thing!
When we know our values and goals it’s ok to change our ‘how’ of reaching them.
Papa was planning to be an orchardist when we met. He thought he would be in that career forever.
Why? Because he loved working outside, and he loved strategically solving things.
20 years later, he began using those same passions as a civil engineer.
Remember this truth when someone asks you ‘So what are you going to do with the rest of your life?
Answer with your ‘why’ instead of your how.
Find Something to Celebrate
Even on the hardest of days, I hope you will find something, even if it is small, to celebrate.
Spend a bit of time thinking about it, and maybe even write it down. Doing this each day can change your perspective in a big way.
My celebration today? The sun is shining in my window on a chilly winter day!
Family – There’s Always a Place For You
I have a print created by artist Hannah Joiner. Maybe you’ve noticed it hanging near the kitchen.
It is a long dining table with all types of chairs surrounding it.
The title of the print is ‘There’s always a place for you.”
That piece means so much to me, as it reminds me daily of the blessing of family and friends, and the unconditional love and grace that those two entities should provide.
If you’re going to take away one thing from this letter to my grandchildren let it be this:
I think you know, but I want to emphatically state it again, that you belong in our family.
There will always always always be a place for you to bring your questions, your joys, your sorrows, your struggles, and your triumphs.
Love People, Always
Our world is ripe with discord and dissension over the tiniest of things.
Look for ways to build others up.
Look for ways to cheer people on.
Be a person who loves people.
You will be amazed at the effect it has not just on their lives, but on your life as well.
Remember That God is With You, Always
You can look to Him for everything you need.
He is a faithful provider, comforter, forgiver, and friend.
One of my favorite Bible verses is Joshua 1:9.
“Here is what I am commanding you to do. Be strong and brave. Do not be afraid. Do not lose hope. I am the Lord your God. I will be with you everywhere you go.”