“Each day of our lives we make deposits in the memory banks of our children.”
Charles R. Swindoll

I enjoyed a good day with my grandchildren yesterday. It was my husband’s birthday. Some of our children and grandchildren came over to help him celebrate his 60th year on this planet. We grilled steaks, baked potatoes, tossed up a great salad, and warmed up garlic bread. We gave him presents, and then put a candle on top of the sugar free cheesecake that I baked for him, so that he could make a wish while we sang Happy Birthday to him.

The small house that I live in can barely hold my family when they are all gathered here. Sitting together to eat at one table is impossible. The entire house becomes a banquet room. Everyone sits where they can find a spot to eat comfortably. The children are usually seated at the kitchen table while the adults spread out to other parts of the house to eat and chat.

Yesterday, there was one chair left at the kitchen table and I decided I would sit with my grandchildren. I wanted that time to connect with them and to learn what is going on in their little lives, and to gain more insight into their interests, etc. More than that, I wanted them to know that they are important to me, and that their company and conversation matter a great deal. They seemed surprised that I took a seat at “the children’s table”, but they were delighted to have me there.

I spoke in an almost hushed tone to my grandchildren to indicate to them that this was our special time and my attention was theirs entirely. They spoke back in like fashion. They told me who their friends were, shared some of their fishing adventures and other likes and dislikes. They even talked about some of their spiritual beliefs, which I thought to be pretty amazing, since the youngest at the table was only 5 years old.

After we ate, I got up, and then was asked to play the piano for them. I can’t remember when anyone actually wanted to hear me play. I was happy to oblige. They stood around, listened and watched my fingers move up and down the keyboard. I was teaching them something at the same time. Something that didn’t need to be said. Just by example, I was showing them that because I can do this; they can too. Music is already in their veins. Children learn so much of who they can be, and what they are capable of, by the adults close to them. They learn limiting beliefs the same way. It is for this reason that I want to shine in front of them.

Having said all that, time with my grandchildren is more than an opportunity to teach and to connect with their lives. I find a peace in their presence that I find no where else. They are such a gift to me when life gets crazy, or when there is turmoil in certain aspects of my world. Just being with them helps me to climb down, get in touch with the wonderment of life through their eyes, and for a time all of my cares melt away.

How wonderful to bless, and be blessed in simple ways, and to know the love and respect of children. I can think of no greater gift in this life.

Rita