The Grandchildren-grandparents Connection

Ever wondered what it is that makes grannies take to their grandchildren and vice versa. Ever pondered what it is that draws one to the other. I’ve wondered, sometimes grown envious, sympathised with the parents who feel left out of the connection…but then after observing them for some time, I understand and appreciate the relationship.

Think of the new parents who have been trying to come to terms with the new addition to their family, thinking of how to quell the squeals from their infant when breast-milk and coos are no longer enough, of how to contain the tantrums of the toddler who has discovered he/she can now walk, more than that that they have a will.In the midst of frustrated sighs, and hands thrown up in the air, Granny arrives, bringing calm in their wake.

Granny (Looney Tunes) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

First of all the little one is taken by the hobbling steps of granny, and takes his/her own unsteady steps forwards. The younger drawn towards the older, thinking about how much they have in common. As the toddler draws towards granny their little hand feels the hairless areas on its tiny pate, mesmerised by the similar pattern on granny’s head. Granny smiles in appreciation of their lil’ ones effort revealing gums worn with age, a denture or two may be seen in sight, and baby runs their tongue over their toothless gums ever so grateful for the resemblance. As they edge closer to one another each holding on to something or someone for support, baby makes a high pitched sound in an effort to communicate and granny responds in an almost similar language.

I observe all these thinking of life as a Gaussian curve, from where we have been to where we are going. Both lil’ one and elderly need love, care, respect because they tell us where we are in life, and why we must make the best of it, especially in our youth. As for the grannies the wisdom they pass down to us can never be overestimated.