My Dear Grandchild,
Graduating from High School and going off to college is a momentous event. It is one of a handful of events that change the course of your life. This is a true self improvement journey, one that will ask everything of you and give back even more.
Strangely enough, these happenings occur in each of our lives – in different ways. Yes, there are cycles that we all experience – in one form or another. That’s why wisdom from grandparents matters, because we’ve walked these roads before.
I would like to draw a parallel with an experience in my life – and we can draw connections between them. Perhaps someday you will be doing the same with your child, or grandchild. These are life lessons for grandchildren that get passed down through stories, not lectures.
When I was 21-22 I was coming back from an army posting in Europe. My unit was so small that we did not rotate as a group, but as individuals.
At that age I was standing on the dock looking up at a huge Troop Ship – realizing that of the thousands of troops about ready to embark – I did not know a single one. I had no idea where I was going to bunk, or eat. Everything was unknown.
I have to think that is somewhat like you packing your car – ready to head off to Boise State University; Heading off to an uncertain environment. What would it be like? That feeling is exactly why developing curiosity in children is so vital, because curiosity turns the unknown into an adventure rather than a fear.
Back on the troop ship- I remember standing alone on the deck – looking out at the Atlantic. The Europe I loved – having been there for two years – was receding in the past, and the ship was heading for New York, my next chapter.
I remember mentally closing that chapter of my life – hating to see it end – and speeding toward the next experience.
I would think that would not be unlike the feeling you may have when you are driving away from home – where you have had such a loving atmosphere for all of your life. And in a way hating to see it end, and wondering what lie ahead for you. This moment requires real self growth and self esteem, the kind that lets you say goodbye to one chapter and walk bravely into another.
I remember thinking what it would be like when I arrived home after being gone for three years. My social group had pretty much dissipated. With a few exceptions, nothing would be the same.
Now, you are about to enter the University – what lies ahead for you?
When I got back, I entered what is now UC at Long Beach- what lies ahead for me?
You wondered, I wondered – and that wondering is actually the importance of curiosity in life made real. It’s not anxiety, it’s anticipation.
And upon reflection – we learn to approach each new chapter of our life with eager anticipation – and we find that the new chapter is wonderful. When we sprinkle it with memories of past chapters – it becomes better still. That is emotional intelligence and curiosity working together, feeling the past fully while staying open to the future.
The unknown, the anticipation, the sense of adventure – all make for a wonderful fulfilling life. That is what I wish for you. This is my inspirational letter to grandson, though you are my granddaughter, the love knows no gender.
This little golden coin is for you to keep in your purse/pocket. It is just a token of a wonderful life ahead for you – full of all the things you desire. Consider it part of your personal development and mindset, a small object to remind you of big truths.
On one side of the coin – it says: Monnaie de Paris. That is the official coin minting operation in France – and has been since 864 AD.
That is to commemorate your trip to Paris later this month.
The other side says: SITE DE GLANUM – identifying it as an archeological site. Let this coin represent legacy and life advice, things that last long after we are gone.
Happy New Chapter, Emelia
Your Loving Poppa
