The Power of A Godly Grandparent, A Book Review

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Apr 30, 2003

Several months ago a friend told me she sent cards to each of her grandchildren every month. Not to the family, but to each child. What a great idea! This inspired me to write to my grandkids, nieces, and nephew more often. A few weeks later she showed me a very special scrapbook she'd made. Her son was divorced and her grandson would be living with the mother some distance away. The scrapbook contained pictures, along with anecdotes and mementos, of their family. She wanted her grandson to know his daddy's heritage. This dear lady was teaching me the importance of being a loving, devoted, involved grandma.

So I was excited when I was asked to review The Power of a Godly Grandparent: Leaving a Spiritual Legacy by Stephen and Janet Bly. Reading this book offered me a chance to continue my education as a grandparent. My grandsons live out of state so I've felt envious of those who have closer relationships, physically and relationally, with their grandchildren. Now I realize that distance is only an excuse.

Building a stronger, healthier relationship with grandchildren involves changing habits. Why? Because it's easy to read a book and gather ideas, but unless they are put into practice they're really worthless. The Power of a Godly Grandparent will provide you with wonderfully creative, detailed plans for strengthening your relationship with your grandchildren. As you read, jot down some ideas that appeal to you. Then go back and number them in order of priority. Write them out as goals and set a date for achieving each one. Below are just a few of the many ideas I gleaned.

· Keep a recipe file with an index card listing favorite foods for each child. How special it is when Grandma remembers your very favorite foods. You can also add favorite toys, books, interests, school subjects, fiends, colors, etc.

· Send gifts and cards for no reason. Send cards, letters and emails consistently. Put it on the calendar each month so time doesn't slip by without a note sent.

· Keep track of what's going on in each grandchild's life - games, plays, etc. - even if you can't be there. Write them on the calendar and ask how it went next time you talk. Let them know you are praying for them.

· Share your faith with your grandchildren in everyday life, not just in formal ways. Bring it up naturally, along with conversation about everything else. Send spiritual and educational gifts, but fun gifts too.

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