I have noticed that my grandchildren, with whom I talk about many things, still see me as someone with whom they need to be careful. But I am really a lot tougher than they think. Because something they have experienced in the world is new to them, they tend to think that perhaps I have not heard of it either. Little do they realize that fashions may change, new words may be added to our vocabulary, electronics may enter and dominate our lives, but humanity has not really changed much since the beginning of time. Boys and girls are still boys and girls with all the complications that come with that. School is still a teacher and students, even though the classroom may look completely different. One’s first job is still just as elusive as is conquering one’s finances upon launching from home.
We grandparents are probably a lot less shockable than our grandchildren think, for we have seen a lot of the foibles, mistakes, joys, and accomplishments of a lifetime. If we are honest, in our passage into adulthood and beyond we made mistakes and saw mistakes that we avoided either on purpose or by chance. We also saw the ramifications of these mistakes and now possess the long view of these problems. What was a burning issue at ten or twenty, is now behind us and we know the end of the story. That does not mean we do not take an issue seriously, for it is deadly serious to the one facing it, but we can say with authority that it will pass and perhaps even suggest ways to ameliorate it.
Underneath the graying hair, the slower walk, the creaking joints we are tough old birds. We have withstood more shocks, problems, and challenges than the younger generation realizes. Trust us with your thoughts, and we will have the grace to respect where you are in life and perhaps share a bit of the long view along with a heartfelt hug.