In Honor Of Grandparents

A short Grandparent's Day 'My Back Pages'

Theresa and Angelo Zaffino  circa 1950




Grandparents are special people. They comfort you when you are hurt or upset. They chastise you when you are misbehaving, and tell you that you are still loved, and all is forgiven. They find that extra dollar in their pocket or purse, even after mommy has said “No, not today!”, for that ice cream or special toy that you wanted, and smile at mommy’s exasperation. “It’s a grandparents right to spoil the child!” they will say.
 Grandparents are often the gentle victims of a child’s wrath when he or she is overtired. Grandparents are forgiving of the eye roll when they attempt to give advise, both from a parent or the child. Grandparents always have a hug or a kiss for a child, even when that child does not want it at the moment. Grandparents are always ready to listen, and give advise, if asked.. or just nod and understand if that is what is needed.
 Grandparents unconditionally love their grandchildren and expect nothing in return but a little respect.
 Sometimes, grandparents are inadvertently put on the sidelines, but sit patiently and know that their time will come. They will fret over the smallest hurt, and burst with pride over every accomplishment. No one could be prouder than a grandparent is of their grandchildren
  So take a moment out of your busy day today and, if you are lucky enough to still have them in your life, give them a call. If they have passed, take a few moments and think about all the good things that they did. Remember how much they loved you. You won’t regret it, and you may find a smile on your face, or a tear in your eye. I remembered mine today, and I had both.

John Zaffino, Kent New York
September 8, 2013

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