A New Child in the Family

I think I have mentioned before that I am going to be a grandfather. The doctor is going to induce labor on the 14^th of this month. My wife, Cyndy, has been trying to find her place in the baby’s life. The hardest part for me will be dealing with Cyndy and Jennifer’s mother at the same time. It cannot go well. If Cyndy and I had stayed together when we dated out of high school, Jennifer would be hers. But we had different paths to travel before we finally came back together for the rest of our lives.

So I have not been able to fully enjoy the fact that I am becoming a grandfather. Nor have I been able to think about how I feel exactly and what I will do to be a special grandfather. I do not want to turn around when she is five years old or older and regret not doing what I wish I had done. I already regret enough about raising my four children thus far.

I used to say I did not have to worry about Jennifer any more except when she needs help or money. That was wrong of course. I never stop worrying about my family. But now my little girl is having a little girl. I will not only be worrying about Jennifer, but my granddaughter as well. Making sure that Jennifer and her husband have what they need to take care of their daughter.

But what am I going to do as a special grandfather? Something that will form a special bond between Kelley Elizabeth and her grandfather. Something that only her grandfather did for her. Something only he could do. I am the only writer in the family (my father has written books about our ancestors, but he is not a writer beyond that) since I can barely get my children to read, much less write. Sad though it may be. So I’m thinking that writing would be the most personal thing I could do.

But letters, poems, or what? Or both? I guess I’ll begin to channel the inspiration I am starting to feel in relation to my coming granddaughter. I will see where that inspiration leads me. But I do know this. The focus of my gift will be on the religious traditions that were passed down to me as they have been for centuries. A focus on the gift the Lord gave us when he sacrificed his son. A tradition of faith in God. With a foundation in faith, she will have a good life. It has worked for her family so far.

Peace be with you.