Please forgive me, but I had my dates mixed-up for Grandparent's Day and I wanted to do this as a tribute to a most wonderful grandmother. She lived in same neighborhood as I do. She was so very gentle with advice and the most honest and up-front person to tell you the truth. With the batting of her eyes and direct no non-sense approach, you known you would always get the truth of what ever you asked.
I remember I was explaining to her one day the fear I had of not being a good mother and how sometimes some things just seem to complicated to handle raising a child. She assured me that putting everything in the hands of God, things would work out. As my child grew, she reminded me of how much she could see I must be doing something right. And of course she understood that if she ever saw my child get out of hand, to take care of the matter and correct him and also let us know of any misbehaving actions. Some parents no longer accept this practice, because to correct a child now a day is somewhat of a danger. Some parents are not concerned about a child being corrected, but are more disturbed with what you said to the child and if it doesn't meet their approval are ready to fight.
Mrs. Alice Marie Davis, a devoted wife, mother and grandmother had the privilege of raising her grandson, Christopher. To be the unselfish, caring person stepping up to the task of becoming a grandmother to experience the second chance of child rearing and offered physical care, emotional support, encouragement and protection generously.
Christopher had to write an essay about his favorite person as a school assignment for his English class and of course he chose to write about his grandmother. This paper was shared with the neighborhood families and it came as no surprise to me as to what his feeling were about his grandmother. He expressed the up most respect for a lady that showed kindliness and was determined to see Christopher develop into an adoring and considerate person. If the true purpose of grandparents is to train children in godliness and carry out this mission in ways pleasing to the Lord, then I personally feel Mrs. Alice Davis accomplished her goal. The neighborhood will miss this good soul and we know Christopher will also. The core of her heart is love.
Throughout the Scriptures, the Lord calls us to love one another (Romans13:8), live in harmony (Romans 12:6) and serve each other (Galatians 5:13). Grandparents are in a position to put these words into practice. Setting the right examples will influence children to follow good patterns. Helping cheerfully and the willingness to spend time with our grandchildren will bring joy and maybe an opportunity for grandparents to learn sometime new also. Embrace the time together and put God first.
God bless.
I am hopeful. You be also.
Loretta Thomas-Whiteside is a neighborhood news columnist for The News Herald.
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