The only time I have spent time with my grandparents is when I was younger and it has been a long time since I have seen them. This is due to the fact that I live very far from them and also there is a language barrier. I do my best to try to speak to them but nothing is accomplished other than the impersonal small talk. I regret not being able to be fluent in my native language, but now that I am older there are so many things going on in my life.
I know the time is soon when I will have to say goodbye, but how can I do this without even knowing them that well. I don't want to be regretting this for the rest of my life, knowing that I wasn't able to get to know my grandparents personally. I feel that I missed out on a lot in my life because of this, as I could have learned a lot from them. I am so confused, please help!
Thanks
2007-02-14 18:54:28 · 3 answers · asked by Vegas♠Bound 2 in Family & Relationships ➔ Family
I can understand how you feel. I was in a similiar situation with my paternal grandparents. I did not get to know them until I was in my early 20's. It was very hard to get to know them because I really did not know them that well. They were like strangers. But curiosity got the better of me and I wanted to get to know them on a personal level because they were a part of me and of my life. So, I started asking more indepth questions, like what their childhood was like, how they met, how was life growing up, etc. It did take me awhile to finally ask those questions, but it was fun and I had a deeper appreciation for them. I asked them to send me photos and I asked for photos they could spare of them when they were younger.
Although I did not get to see them in person very much, I made a huge effort to stay in touch and just call at random times to talk. I always thought of them on holidays, even if I just sent a card, but I wanted them to know that I was thinking of them.
My grandparents have since passed on, but I did get to know them and am thankful I made the effort. I know they were happy too.
It may seem awkward at first to start trying to really get to know them, but once you start asking questions, you will see that they will enjoy the bond you are trying to establish as well.
2007-02-15 02:32:09 · answer #1 · answered by blueyonder 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just being there to see them is comforting to them. Your body language can speak for you better than words some times anyway. A smile on your face is what they want to see. I am sure they are glad to see you all grow up even with the language barrier. Knowing a part of themselves live on in you. Take comfort and don't stress yourself out on words and conversation. Just go and See them and how they light up when you walk in the room. As for learning from them, record video with sound so that you may refer to it in the future. You will be fine.
2007-02-15 03:10:45 · answer #2 · answered by extspecialbt 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it's hard... i just found out that my granddad died... and i have no clue where to start to say sorry to my grandmother... they never really talked to me... or my brother... but they were still family....
it's hard
2007-02-16 16:14:53 · answer #3 · answered by alaina_soarys 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋