When I was a child, I can remember gathering during the holidays and throughout the year for various special family affairs here and there. I remember getting big wet kisses from my tissue toting grandmother, and funny tap dancing salutations from my green eyed grandfather. And though I was raised to be seen and not heard in the company of adults, I always had an extended ear, eager to gather tid bits of information that I would store away for the perfect day I would need that little voice of wisdom, or carry it in the forefront of my mind until the moment I could question its source and validity.
September 13, 2009 marks this years Grandparents Day and the the 31st anniversary of signing of the proclamation by Ex-President Jimmy Carter that turned West Virginia housewife Marian McQuades vision into a national holiday. With Marians primary motivation set at championing the cause of the lonely elderly in nursing homes, she inspired grandchildren, communities and eventually the nation, to tap into the wisdom and heritage of their grandparents…and pass it on. Marian beleived that to honor grandparents, give grandparents the opportunity to show love for their childrens children, and to help children become more aware of the strength, information and guidance that the older generation have to offer, the youth will feel nurtured and the communities will be strengthened. Through intergenerational interaction, knowledge and wisdom are exchanged, one conversation at a time.
The late and great Honorable Bob ‘Nesta’ Marley shared it best in his song Real Situation where he states, “once a man, twice a child; and everything is just for awhile…” reminding us to honor the preciousness and fragility of time and life itself, not only as our family members grow into seasoned elders, but as we do also.
In honor of all our seasoned elders, the journey they have led, the wisdom they have gained, and the roll they still play in the lives of other, J&O Fabrics offers a selection of nostalgic prints and designs inspired by the days of innocence and generations gone by.
Grandparents Day may only come once a year, but its celebrated 365 right here at J&O Fabrics!
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The years go by quickly and I am a grandparent now! But I remember my grandparents and the wisdom they shared. I only hope my grandchildren remember me!
It is amazing what little children remember and carry with them, just as you did. Thanks for the response!