"Grandpa, tell me a story when you were little?" Vital Role Grandparents play in our lives.

In my role as a therapist, I have the unique privilege of walking with my clients through various forms of traumas that we as humans experience.  One of the exercises I often engage my clients in is a safe/calm place exercise.  Without going into a lengthy description of the exercise, a portion of it involves think of a place that represents one of the most safe and calm places they can think of.  Time and time again, I hear the words, “It was my grandparents home”.
A Legacy of wisdom
Grandparents are not just family elders; they are storytellers, mentors, and guardians of familial heritage. Their involvement in their grandchildren’s lives can have a lasting impact, shaping their values, character, and understanding of the world.  Author Jim Burns highlights the profound influence grandparents have, stating, "When a child is born, he is the closest he will ever be to the image of God… As a grandparent, you have the privilege of furthering God’s kingdom through the legacy you leave with your grandchildren." This legacy is not just of material possessions but of experiences, morals, and life lessons.
Emotional Anchors
Grandparents often provide a sense of stability and comfort. In a world that is constantly changing, they offer a connection to the past and a steady love that is both reassuring and nurturing. 
Educators of Life
Beyond the classroom, grandparents teach life skills and practical knowledge. They pass down traditions and skills that form the tapestry of family culture and identity. Among other things, my grandfather taught me about fishing.  I can still smell the aroma of his tobacco pipe as he sat patiently waiting for the “big one”. 
Conclusion 
The role of grandparents is invaluable. They are the custodians of family history and the purveyors of wisdom. By embracing their role, they enrich their grandchildren’s lives, leaving a mark that transcends generations.  Jim Burns encapsulates this beautifully: "We are the link to the past, the anchor to the present, and the bridge to the future." Indeed, grandparents are a vital link in the chain of life, offering guidance and love that helps shape the future of their grandchildren.
With all that said, not all grandparents fit the descriptions noted above. For every endearing story there are also many of heartache related to grandparents who may have sadly been disengaged or otherwise unavailable or incapable of healthy relationship.  As unfortunate as this may be, we can take it upon ourselves to be the very grandparents we would like to have had.  With this, our next generation might have that opportunity to speak endearingly about their grandparents.