We seem to be playing a new game in my family. My sons, who are in their early 30s, have been revealing some startling things to me lately, things they did when they were younger. They then smile and look at me defiantly when I ask, “What? How did I not know about that?”
But I can play the game, too. I tell them something I did when I was young, things that were often stupid and a bit reckless – it was the ‘70s, after all. Their dumbfounded looks tell me I have achieved my goal, counter-acting their quest for shock value. It’s actually kind of fun and liberating!
I wasn’t born a grandma; I had a life, a quite colorful one at that – so, turnabout is fair play. Yet somehow, I managed to raise two fine, responsible young men with their late father.
If you are a young person, especially a Gen Z-er, visit and chat with your grandma one-on-one from time to time (no parents allowed). Ask her if she ever did anything dumb and reckless. Listen to her stories – tell her you really want to know. I think you’ll be surprised. And trust me, grandmas are great secret-keepers. You might ask her how she dealt with some of the issues you may be facing today. You may be surprised at what she learned that you could employ. Ask her to share her ideas about things that are important to you; despite your age difference, she may help you out with some legitimate, doable solutions.
If your grandparents are no longer living, you probably know someone older you could talk to about the things on your mind. Don’t dismiss them because they’re senior citizens – they were just as cool and still are! Yes, I know a lot of older folks seem to be living in the past and talk about the good old days all the time. But trust me, we would rather go with you into the future. Teach us and we will teach you.
One day when my boys were in elementary school, we went to lunch at a coney place. It was half-day of school and about five young teens were sitting way in the back of the crowded diner. A sweet, little older lady walked in the front door and one of the boys stood up and yelled across the room, “Grandma!
We can bridge the divide between generations … if we just talk with each other more.
When did you get out of jail?!” She was flustered and turned beet-red but then, went over to the kids and got big hugs and kisses all around. That day, I vowed to one day be that grandma. So far, so good!
I don’t judge young people today and am as honest as possible. I may not have much, but I always have something to say. We can bridge the divide between generations … if we just talk with each other more.
