ONE DAY WHEN YOUR CHILD IS LEAVING FOR UNIVERSITY

I came across an interesting response in the advice column by Amy Dickinson in today's Metro newspaper to the letter of a reader who is mourning an empty nest when her daughter has recently left for college. I think part of it is worth sharing here:
"... This is completely normal. You and your daughter are both experiencing a huge life transition.
Ultimately this will yielded unexpected joys and challenges to both of you. What you must not do is impose your emotional response onto your daughter.
In life, it is the child's job, ultimately, to leave the nest. The parent's burden is to let her leave, and to celebrate her independence in stages..."

GRANDMA'S PEARLS OF WISDOM

I want to share this touching poem by Becky Netherland which was enclosed in a flyer I received long time ago to advertise for the "Grandma's Pearls of Wisdom Pearl Necklace" from the Bradford Exchange fine jewellery.
 

Grandma's Pearls of Wisdom

To My Granddaughter...

I’ve traveled paths you’ve yet to walk
Learned lessons old and new
And now this wisdom of my life
I’m blessed to share with you

Let kindness spread like sunshine
Embrace those who are sad
Respect their dignity, give them joy
And leave them feeling glad

Forgive those who might hurt you
And though you have your pride
Listen closely to their viewpoint
Try to see the other side

Walk softly when you’re angry
Try not to take offense
Invoke your sense of humor
Laughter’s power is immense!

Express what you are feeling
Your beliefs you should uphold
Don’t shy away from what is right
Be courageous and be bold

Keep hope right in your pocket
It will guide you day by day
Take it out when it is needed
When it’s near, you’ll find a way

Remember friends and family
Of which you are a precious part
Love deeply and love truly
Give freely from your heart

The world is far from perfect
There’s conflict and there’s strife
But you still can make a difference
By how you live your life

And so I’m very blessed to know
The wonders you will do
Because you are my granddaughter
And I believe in you 

(©2008 Becky Netherland for The Bradford Group) 

If you want to find nice greetings and poems for your grandma, here is a link for some:

http://www.pic2fly.com/Grandmother+Granddaughter+Quotes.html