YOUNG PEOPLE ASK . . .Why Should I Get to Know My Grandparents?

When my mother and I had trouble communicating, Grandma helped us to work things out." -Damaris.

"THROUGHOUT history, grandparents have been the key to my family harmony and continuity."  So writes Dr. Arthur Kornhaber in his book Grandparent Power!  He adds:  "As teachers, supporters of parents, historians,  nurturers, consultants, and even entertainers, their psychological, social, and spiritual functions were of paramount importance. I wondered how our society had possibly come to dismiss this powerful, multifaceted grandparent role." 

In bygone days, grandparents were a foundation stone of family life, particularly among worshipers of Jehovah God.  The Bible commanded the Israelites  to respect and esteem older ones.   (Leviticus 19:32) Grandparents were considered especially worthy of honor. -1 Timothy 5:4. 

Sad to say, times have changed. Long distances often separate families, and many  youths have little contact with their grandparents. Attitudes  have also changed.  In many parts of the world, older ones-including relatives -are no longer treated with due respect.  (2 Timothy 3:1-3) What used to be called a generation gap now seems more like a chasm. Many youths think of their grandparents as old and out of touch.  They cannot imagine that these older ones could possibly understand the pressures and problems youths face today.

If that is the way you feel, be prepared to think again!  For their is great value in getting to know your grandparents-especially if they are God-fearing. And if you have not got to know them, you may very well be missing out.  How so?

Next time:  YOUNG PEOPLE ASK . . .Why Should I Get to Know My Grandparents?/A Source of Wisdom and Advice

From the Awake! magazine