Dear Next Generation: A Grandfather’s Heart

Grandparents have a tremendous influence in a child's life

Dear Next Generation, an advice column from readers to young people. Photo by Shutterstock

I am a very proud grandfather to three beautiful grandkids. I was a cop for 35 years working the streets and being involved in investigations as a detective. The downside was that I missed a lot of my own daughter’s activities, including pageants and birthdays. That completely changed as a “grandpapa.” I took time out to be with them at every opportunity. Get down to their level and be a little silly, they love it. Go to the park, take walks, and challenge them to a race. I had a make-believe friend that I would always say, “You just missed him” when they would arrive at our place. Some people have no idea how much of an influence that grandparents have on the little tots. My grandfather had a tremendous influence on my life, and I have tried to return that favor.

Stephen Flanagan, Ottawa

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What advice would you like to give to the younger generations?

We call on all of our readers to share the timeless values that define right and wrong and pass the torch, if you will, through your wisdom and hard-earned experience. We feel that the passing down of this wisdom has diminished over time and that only with a strong moral foundation can future generations thrive.

Send your advice, along with your full name, state, and contact information to [email protected] or mail it to: Next Generation, The Epoch Times, 229 W. 28th St., Floor 7, New York, NY 10001.