I came across this brief essay in a 20-year-old file. I wish I could give it proper attribution, but the old piece of paper is all I have. I appreciate the words more today than ever, now that I am the granddad of six grandchildren.
What Is a Grandmother?
By a Third Grader
A grandmother is a lady who has no children of her own. She likes other people’s little boys and girls. A grandfather is a man grandmother. He goes for walks with the boys, and they talk about fishing, football, and stuff like that.
Grandmothers don’t have anything to do except to be there. They’re old so they shouldn’t play hard or run. It is enough if they drive us to the store where the pretend horse is, and have lots of change ready. Or, if they take us for walks, they slow down past things like pretty leaves and caterpillars. They never say “hurry up.”
Usually grandmothers are fat, but not too fat to tie your shoes. They wear glasses and funny underwear. They can take their teeth and gums off.
Grandmothers don’t have to be smart, only answer questions like, “Why isn’t God married?” and “How come dogs chase cats?”
Grandmothers don’t talk baby talk like other visitors do, because it’s hard to understand. When they read to us, they don’t skip or mind if it’s the same story over again.
Everybody should try to have a grandmother, especially if you’re not allowed to watch much television, because they are the only grown-ups who have time.
I really appreciate the mind and heart of the child. The next time I want to be anything else other than a grandmother to my grandson, such as impatient, tired,or in a hurry I will remember this