September 11th
National Grandparents Day
LORD, WE SET ASIDE A DAY TO HONOR AND REMEMBER OUR GRANDPARENTS AND SENIORS WHO HAVE LED THE WAY AND MADE THIS A BETTER WORLD FOR US. WE ASK YOU TO BLESS THEIR HEARTS AND MEMORIES. AMEN.
This day is so special to me because, like many of you, I was raised by my grandparents. National Grandparents Day falls each year on the first Sunday after Labor Day. It’s not a holiday invented to sell cards and flowers. It was initiated at the grassroots level by West Virginian Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade, with the behind-the-scenes support of her husband Joseph L. McQuade. They had 15 children, 43 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. After being married for over 60 years, Mr. McQuade passed away in 2001. Mrs. McQuade passed away in 2008. There are three purposes for National Grandparents Day:
1. To honor grandparents.
2. To give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children’s children.
3. To help children become aware of the strength, information, and guidance older people can offer.
Mrs. McQuade wanted Grandparents Day to be a family day. She envisioned families enjoying small, private gatherings, perhaps even a family reunion, or participating in community events. On a societal level, National Grandparents Day gives us a chance to publicly affirm the identity and importance of grandparents, and that they do play a vital role in families. It is also a day of giving – giving of self; sharing hopes, dreams, and values; setting an example, and advocating for future generations. Generations United in Washington, DC encourages all ages to engage in intergenerational civic engagement for the entire week following National Grandparents Day.
Mrs. McQuade started her campaign for a day to honor grandparents in 1970. She worked with civic, business, church, and political leaders to first launch the day in her home state in 1973. Then, after many years, much persuasion, and unending persistence, she finally achieved her bigger goal. It was in 1979 that President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the first Sunday after Labor Day each year as National Grandparents Day (September was chosen to signify the “autumn” years of life).
| National Grandparents Day is an important official marker of intergenerational relationships. But increasingly, schools and community groups are organizing Grandparents Day (or Intergenerational Day) events at any time during the year as a way to bring together families and build community. Children have an opportunity to show their appreciation and love toward their grandparents (and other special older adult friends), and grandparents feel valued as their role is validated. The Legacy Project offers a complete Grandparents Day Planning & Activity Guide for schools, seniors centers, and community groups. There are also a wide range of meaningful activities you can choose from to bring the generations closer and celebrate the value of intergenerational relationships. My book “800 SAYINGS BY OLD FOLKS WHO RAISED US” would make a great gift for your grandparents to play a family game when you all get together. Yes celebrate them while you still have them and they can still smell their flowers! |
This is Rev Dr. Wm. Rocky Brown, 3rd letting you know that GOD and I Love you, and we approve this message because we want to motivate your mind, body & soul. So be happy and enjoy the blessings of The LORD today my friend! Please subscribe to my website to receive these messages daily at http://www.yourspiritualmotivation.com. You can also buy my publication: “800 SAYINGS BY OLD FOLKS WHO RAISED US” from Amazon.com or www.wmrockybrown3rd.com or by email: wmrocbe@aol.com or by calling 215-480-5333. The cost is $15.00 s/h included.
