By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Richard_Quindry]Richard Quindry
From the time they draw their first breath they will have stolen your heart. As I await the arrival of my fourth grandchild I remain as excited by this event as I was with the arrival of the first, some 16 years ago. This will be the firstborn of my youngest child and her husband, and I'm sure they are even more excited than I.
Though the blessed event is still several months off, I'm certain I'll be awed by how quickly the time has passed when he or she is off to their first day of school. As I can recall, the comment of how fast children grow was often made by the adults when my siblings and I were growing up. Even as the world changes, some things remain the same. The bond between parent and child is one of them.
There is another special bond important to the growth and development of children; the one between grandparents and their grandchildren. It is a significant relationship that can enhance the progress of a child's maturation. Though I was still young when they passed I can recall what a joy it was to travel half a day in the car to visit Dad's folks. They always made me feel special. I learned so many things from both of them that it had me thinking that they were so wise that I wanted to be just like them.
Since I became a grandparent myself I have learned that the river of knowledge and experience flows in both directions. We gain so much from the added perspective that these precious little [ insert term such as bundle of joy ] provide us with. They keep us thinking young, remembering that life is about more than work and the accumulation of material objects. They acquaint us with new things, helping us to keep up with progress in an ever-changing world. How many times have we heard the remark that, "my grandchild knows more about the computer than I do."
As much as I treasure the inspiration provided by the insights of these little darlings, it is the opportunity to pass down the knowledge and wisdom acquired during my lifetime that affords me the most gratification. My list of values to pass on to my grandchildren includes the following.
A belief in oneself and a belief in a higher power. There is much more to our world than what we can see, hear, smell or touch. Understanding this opens us to the possibility that all things are possible. There is magic in believing. To learn more on the subject you should pick up a copy of Claude M. Bristol's The Magic of Believing.
Put forth your best effort at what ever you endeavor to do and never give up. Half way just isn't good enough. You'll be able to take pride in yourself knowing that you gave it your all. Never say that you can't do something. This word was forbidden in our household. We were instilled with the idea that the attitude of "can't" ultimately leads to defeat. In fact it will prevent you from ever trying. Adults are often guilty of saying. "I could never do that!"
Know yourself and be true to who you are. Don't try to be something you are not. No one likes a phony This should not be confused with trying new things or developing new skills and interest. Look inside yourself when faced with situations and do what comes naturally. You won't be let down.
Be your own person. Do not fall prey to others who want to control and manipulate your life. Think for yourself. Don't simply follow others because they appear have a greater knowledge or experience. Develop your ability of critical thinking and analysis. Most answers can be worked out in your head if you apply this process. There was a time that we were taught this concept in school. Perhaps this is the greatest failure of the educational system today.
Pursue your dreams. Never lose sight of your aspirations. They raise our spirits to a higher level and are an important part of evolving our imagination. Even when you fail to succeed in your initial efforts it isn't the end. Step back, take a look at the circumstances objectively. Ask yourself how you might have done this differently. Look to others whom you can emulate. While it's true that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, it is also true that nothing succeeds like success. Model yourself after those who have prevailed at what you want to accomplish. Don't be afraid to ask for advice or assistance. Life is a team sport.
The importance of education. It should never be underestimated. You will be judged by others for how you speak. Remember that each day will present new challenges and learning is a lifetime experience that takes place in and out of school. Those acquiring higher education not only earn a greater income during their careers, but they gain a greater appreciation for finer aspects of living. A god education will take you anywhere you choose to go. Read, study, work hard and you will have earned your education.
Have fun. The value of recreation is in what it returns to the body and spirit. It may appear to be a contradiction, but participation in sports and other forms of recreation are the best ways to rejuvenate yourself and build self-esteem. Winning isn't as important as trying. Participating in sport also teaches teamwork, self-discipline, commitment and the meaning and importance of good sportsmanship. It also helps build your confidence.
Honesty & integrity. When you interact with others always strive to be a person of his/her word. Reneging on a promise or obligation can damage a reputation quickly. Protect your reputation. It can take time to build a good reputation and only an instant to destroy it. Where often hear it said that "his or her reputation proceeds them." Be sure it is an honorable one.
Appreciation of Music and the Arts: Even though their participation may not extend beyond school or community productions, the value of early exposure to these aspects of the human condition will serve them for a lifetime. Music and art are an expression of the soul; our inner being. Learning to release the inner you in many forms will contribute to creating a personality that attracts positive outcomes.
The value of money and the value of friendship. Why it is important not to confuse the two. Few things can damage a relationship faster than a dispute over money. Abide by the adage of never a borrower nor a lender be. Don't lend money you aren't prepared to make a gift of. This can be especially true with family members.
The list can be almost endless, so I'll finish with this one. Find the good in others. We all are human and suffer the frailties of the human condition. Learn to love thy neighbor as thy self. To do so you must understand that it begins with loving yourself and maintaining your self-respect. That starts with forgiving yourself for your errors, striving to do better and not repeating your mistakes. Being a positive role model and practicing what you preach is one of the foremost examples of good parenting and good grand-parenting. The rewards of watching your little ones grow into happy productive adults will fill you with contentment in your "golden years."
Richard Quindry writes fiction and non-fiction on his website. He can be contacted via email at the email address shown below. He accepts free lance assignments and enjoys researching topics of every sort. He is an avid reader of many other Blogs and likes to share ideas with other writers.
His favorite books include mysteries, science-fiction and biographies. He also enjoys writing poetry, a talent he acquired from his grandfather. His recently published book [http://www.publishamerica.net/product42561.html]Marvelous Miriam's Magical Hawaiian Adventure is dedicated to his granddaughter. [http://hughcares.net/wordpress]Richard Quindry
[mailto:askhugh@hughcares.net]askhugh@hughcares.net
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Grandchildren-Put-the-Gold-in-Your-Golden-Years&id=6475988] Grandchildren Put the Gold in Your Golden Years
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