Growing up with grandparents is a unique privilege, and I was fortunate to have two wonderful pairs: Grandma Betty and Grandpa Joe on my dad’s side, and Nana and Grandpa Lou on my mom’s. Each of them had their own stories and lessons to share, shaping my understanding of the world.
Both my grandfathers served in the military—one in World War II and the other in Korea. While many of their peers also had similar backgrounds, they rarely spoke of their experiences. Grandpa Lou would mention he drove a truck in France, but his tales were sparse. Grandpa Joe, a decorated hero who heroically drove a burning tank back to base, chose silence about his war days. Their reticence taught me the importance of discretion and the value of keeping certain things private.
Grandparents impart countless lessons. I was particularly close to Nana and Grandpa Lou, while my sister bonded more with Grandma Betty and Grandpa Joe. When we were under the weather, it was Nana’s home where I found comfort, as she made me buttered toast and read me stories, like “Tom Sawyer.” Those moments were precious; we were truly fortunate.
Every family seems to have that quirky grandparent. For us, it was Grandma Betty, who embraced her eccentricities with flair. Her home was filled with teddy bears, and she drove a large, eye-catching Buick. Calling her was an event; she had a peculiar phone ritual that added to her charm. She taught us to embrace our individuality.
In contrast, Nana epitomized the nurturing grandmother stereotype, complete with cookies and traditional family gatherings. Despite her black hair and not the typical blue, she showed me one of the most vital skills: cooking. I remember her patiently teaching me how to hold a knife properly, laying the groundwork for my culinary skills at just seven years old.
Another lesson grandparents impart is loyalty. My grandparents, dubbed “the greatest generation,” were deeply rooted in their community. Nana and Grandpa Lou attended the same church they had their First Communion in, and their commitment to their faith was unwavering. Nana taught me my prayers, and when she passed, she was laid to rest from that same church—a testament to their bond.
Persistence is another lesson learned from grandparents. Grandpa Lou spent years collecting unique coins, ranging from wheat pennies to bicentennial quarters. His dedication to gathering these treasures was admirable and instilled in me the value of patience and commitment to a goal.
While grandparents may have had their share of opinions, they also taught me about kindness. Nana and Grandpa Lou frequented the same local diner, where they knew the staff well. They always engaged with the waitstaff, asking about their lives and ensuring they left generous tips. This interaction shaped my own approach to treating service workers with respect and appreciation.
The experience of loss is another profound lesson they teach us. The first significant death many of us face is that of a grandparent. I remember when Nana passed when I was 13; I sought solace in books to escape the pain. Grandma Betty’s funeral was filled with tears, and Grandpa Lou’s declining health now reminds me of the fragility of life. These experiences, though painful, are essential in understanding grief and acceptance.
Though I don’t see Grandpa Lou often, living nearly 700 miles away, he remains a significant part of my life. I’m grateful for the time and love my grandparents invested in me. They shaped my values and taught me about resilience, loyalty, and compassion. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had them in my life.
In summary, those of us lucky enough to have our grandparents have inherited invaluable lessons and love. Their influence continues to guide us as we navigate adulthood, reminding us of the importance of family, tradition, and kindness.