In a recent downpour, I found myself reflecting on life lessons as I stood at the entrance of our daughter’s school during a sports banquet. My daughter, Lily, and my husband, Mark, were eager to rush inside, but I chose to remain outside for a moment. “This is what Grandpa would have done,” I told Lily, who is now 16. Our son, Jake, is 14. It’s hard to believe that this is our first Grandparents Day without him.
My father passed away in May, and I wish for my children to retain the essence of his kindness and spirit. They are bright and enjoyable, but like all teenagers, they can be self-absorbed and stubborn. The challenging experience of losing Dad after a long battle with lung cancer has to yield valuable lessons for Lily and Jake. Here are three key teachings I hope they take to heart:
1. Embrace Life with Enthusiasm
In our household, Dad had a unique way of energizing our Saturdays. He would burst into the living room and exclaim, “LGLGLG!” This abbreviation stood for “Let’s Go, Let’s Go, Let’s Go!” It reflected his eagerness to tackle the day with us. He would whip up breakfast, manage household chores, and still remain upbeat despite the stresses of the week. I want my kids to remember that life is about embracing moments and facing challenges with positivity, just like their grandfather did.
2. Savor Every Experience
Whenever my parents visited, we indulged in Alaskan king crab legs—a tradition my father cherished. He would meticulously prepare for our feasts, focusing on the joy of sharing rather than the effort involved. While I struggled to crack open the shells, Dad would generously share the best pieces with my mom, demonstrating determination and thoroughness in all aspects of life. I hope my children can learn the importance of savoring experiences and sharing joy with others, just as Grandpa did at our family dinners.
3. Offer Blessings Freely
Dad was known for his spontaneous “bless you” remarks, uttered at any bodily noise. This quirky habit, which I sometimes found annoying, was his way of spreading kindness and warmth. It was only when he could no longer speak these words that I realized how much they meant. They were not just reflexive; they were heartfelt blessings. I hope Lily and Jake recognize the power of simple gestures of kindness and the importance of expressing care for others in their daily lives.
As we honor the memory of their grandfather on this Grandparents Day, I hope my children understand the lessons he left behind. If you still have grandparents in your life, it’s vital to acknowledge their influence and the wisdom they offer. For further insights on family dynamics and the journey to parenthood, check out this informative resource or explore home insemination kits to learn more about starting a family. Additionally, consider visiting this blog post for further information on family planning.
In summary, the lessons my father imparted—embracing life with enthusiasm, savoring shared experiences, and offering blessings freely—are essential for our teenagers as they navigate their formative years.