Dear Next Generation: Words of Grandpa

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

Dear Next Generation,

On my 70th birthday, Dec. 12, 2020, I wanted to bless my seven grandchildren (now 8 to 20 years old) by sharing with them my “Words of Grandpa,” which I wrote for the occasion. Leading up to this important birthday, I had been reflecting upon my life and realized that a lot of my success in my marriage, my work, and my relationships with other people could be wrapped up in these short, yet powerful for me, words of advice which I have lived and spoken to others throughout my life. So I gave each of my grandchildren a copy of “Words of Grandpa,” believing that this advice will motivate them to achieve great heights throughout their own lives.

Donald Hoercher

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“Words of Grandpa”

• Love is a four-letter word spelled G-I-V-E.

(John 3:16; 1 Corinthians 13:4–8; 1 John 4:7)

May love be the core of who you are and how you live.

• Be thankful.

(1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Strive to live with gratitude. This is especially important when things in life are a struggle. Be thankful that God strengthens your resolve, not thankful for being in the situation but thankful that God is working mightily within it.

• Think of the next guy—it may be you.

(Philippians 2:1–3; Galatians 6:10)

Have a mindset of others first. Is what I’m doing or how I’m behaving a blessing for others, or am I being selfish? When you use something, take the time to put it back where it belongs so it’s there for the next person; it may be you. Be selfless, for selfishness will hold you back. A giving person is a successful person.

• Live below your means: Share some, save some, spend some.

(Ephesians 4:28)

Keep God, others, work, and lifestyle all in balance. We work to have to give to others. Having no debt is a great freedom to give yourself.

• Do more than you’re asked.

(Philemon 21)

A little more over a long period reaps big results in your finances, your character, and your knowledge.

• Be proud of who you are. Child of God. American.

(1 John 3:2; Philippians 2:13)

Have courage and confidence in your abilities, for God is working in you to will and do his good pleasure. Continue to look for avenues to improve yourself in all areas.

• Wipe your own nose. Learn from yesterday. Live today. Lean into tomorrow. Have your eyes five years down the road.

(Philippians 4:11)

Take personal responsibility, not blaming others for where you are in life. Own all situations you find yourself in—good or bad. What can I learn and how can I grow from them? When you point a finger at someone, you are pointing three back at yourself. The choices of your past took you to where you are today. The choices you make today will take you into tomorrow.

• T-H-I-N-K.

(Romans 12:1–2)

At all ages, many problems can be avoided if you THINK. Instead of rushing in, take a deep breath before before acting, for a calm demeanor allows you to be more efficient with your time and energy. While doing, THINK.

• Improvise, adapt, overcome.

When life gives you a lemon, make lemonade.

• Practice makes better.

Don’t expect perfection, especially on the first attempt at something. Gird up your mind to persist and continue, for each attempt will show you how to improve.

• It’s always right to do the right thing.

Corollary: It’s always wrong to do the wrong thing.

Grandpa Hoercher

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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.