Bonding with your Grandparents

No matter how old you are, the time spent with your Grandparents always holds a special place in your heart. As famous American writer Alex Haley quoted, “Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do.  Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children.” Ask anyone about their grandparents and endearing stories filled with love, cuddles and kisses pour out naturally. While most parents are busy with professional lives, grandparents are your patient cheerleaders regardless of where they are located.  When I was in 8^th grade, I got a B grade in Math, my parents were furious but my grandfather said “That’s progress than your last Math exam, you deserve an ice cream!” A word of encouragement and love is perhaps the most precious gift you’d receive from your grandparents. After all, isn’t it comforting that there is always someone to support you unconditionally when the going gets tough

For grandparents it’s an opportunity to experience world in a new way through younger eyes. A brilliant

example is my close friend whose 70-year-old grandmother truly enjoys shopping! Every time, I meet my friend, we invariably discuss her grandmother’s wardrobe and penchant for clothes and jewellery. In fact, my friend continues to borrow beautiful vintage jewellery and sarees from her grandmother’s wardrobe for wedding functions. My friend’s fashion sensibilities have evolved greatly thanks to her Nani (maternal grandmother).

Engaging in activities that your grandparents love is a great way to spend time with them. So take out time from your busy schedule and pleasantly surprise them. If you love sweet delicacies made by your dadi (paternal grandmother) or nani (maternal grandmother) like me, then it might be a good idea to assist her in the kitchen and learning the recipes. Similarly, take interest in their hobbies they are passionate about, like flowers arrangements, home decor or their eagerness to know about the latest gadgets in town.
 Your grandparents are your family historians and deepening the bond will enrich your life for years to come. Present them a nice gift on their birthday or anniversary to appreciate their unconditional love; while it could be a tad tough to shop for someone who’s nearly 50 years older than you, but it will only tide over the generation gap. There are umpteen gift options like books, spiritual idols and more. Always remember to be thoughtful; get to know them better, be a part of their lives and you’d discover amazing things. Ask them about their adventure stories even though you’ve heard the story a million times! Revisit your childhood memories with them by going through old photos. All they need is love, nothing else.