Unsolicited Words from a Grandfather

Grandfathers seem compelled to offer advise to their grandchildren. It is our duty, our responsibility, our obligation, our mission to bestow unsolicited wisdom. This irresistible urge cannot be denied even though our grandchildren almost never listen to us.

Last year when Lori left for the University of North Carolina School of Arts I couldn’t resist writing her some “words of wisdom.” Because I didn’t want to waste them, I offer the nuggets here. Feel free to pass them on to your grandchildren. It’s your duty.

• The master word is work. To quote Sir William Osler:
• Work will make the dull man bright, the bright man brilliant and the brilliant man steady.
• Try to remember that no one wants to hear your story. They want to talk about themselves. Although you say very little about yourself, you will gain a reputation of being a tremendous conversationalist by letting the other person talk.  And remember that everyone knows something that you don’t. Discover as much as you can about those you meet:
• What kind of experiences have they had?
• What are their likes and dislikes?
• What is most important to them?
• What are their goals and aspirations?
• What fun things have they done?
• What are their major concerns?
• Help people feel good about themselves by telling them you appreciate them and by sincerely praising them...but never lie or write an untruthful letter. If you feel they have done nothing praiseworthy don’t say anything. Everyone enjoys sincere praise and most of us avoid making appreciative comments.
• Ask, seek, knock. Boldly ask for what you want and ask with value. Always give something in return for those who help you get what you want.
• Learn something everyday for the rest of your life. Study, read and learn from others.
• Remember to give God all the glory. Everything we accomplish comes from the talents, gifts and grace God has bestowed upon us. There is no such thing as a self made man or woman although many of us tend to think so.  
• Pray one sentence prayers throughout the day praising God and asking the Holy Spirit for guidance and help.