Dear Christine,
I hope you do not think that I am old-fashioned when I tell you what my problem is. You see, as a child we were brought up to respect everyone, especially the elderly.
Well, I have two grandchildren who are in their teens. I love them both very much and I am also aware that we are years apart. As a result I make allowances, but I find at times they are extremely rude.
I try also never to interfere with the way their parents are bringing them up.
I am surprised at the things they say and that are allowed to pass by their parents, especially my daughter who was trained to be a mannerly child and still is a mannerly person.
The children’s attitude upsets me and I am wondering if I should stop going to see them as often as I do.
Please advise me, Christine.
– GM
Dear GM,
I want to believe that you can have some kind of positive influence on these children still – whether you speak to them or by the way you live.
With this in mind, I think that it is not a wise decision to cut down on the amount of time you spend with them. You still have a part to play in their lives.
It is true that there is too much rudeness all around and very noticeable by the young for the elderly.
I also feel in many instances it is not meant to hurt. It’s just a careless way that people have of speaking to each other.
However, I do not think that you should wait on your daughter to correct the children. What parents are willing to accept from their children is a different matter from what they say to you.
Try to be patient with these teenagers, who are often trying their best to move from being “just children” to young adults.
Speak to them in love and let them know that you love them by actually telling them you do. You’ll be surprise at what a difference this will make in their lives. I am sure you will see a change for the better.
– CHRISTINE
