I visited a new-to-me blog this weekend called Pass the Honey by Pam Garrett and was inspired by her post: Shifting Roles: GAPs. And no, it is not about the gap in Michael Strahan's front teeth (I love him!)
I had no idea what 'GAPs' stood for but it's: Grandparents As Parents. And I've known quite a few. My mother-in-law had to step in with her daughter's son, my brother and his wife stepped in for their granddaughters, a dear friend stepped in for her grandson...and the list goes on.
Luckily, most of these situations turned out with happy endings. Daughters and/or sons pulling it all together and being able to resume their roles as parents and doing it well. I guess we have slow starts in life situations from time to time. And I think it is fantastic that grandparents are willing and able to step up and take on the role of parents for however long.
After reading Pam's post, I realize that I was totally clueless to the effort and adjustment that goes into grandparents assuming the parental role with their grandchildren. But it is tremendous and shows a great deal of love and selflessness.
So many things change from the time we raise our children until our grandchildren come along. And figuring it all out has got to be stressful. Facing retirement and leisure time goes away and being a parent starts all over again when we've been done with that stage of our lives for 10 or 20 or more years. It just can't be easy. And I never thought about that.
So, scoot over to Pass the Honey and read all about Pam's experience and notice, as I did, the unconditional love she has for her granddaughter and the courage, willingness, selflessness and dedication she has to taking on this role that, I think, many underestimate.
Kudos to all who have taken on the role of GAPs. Surely y'all have a crown and throne awaiting you one day.
Do y'all know any GAPs?
Saturday 9...
5 hours ago
I do happen to know people who are parenting their grandchildren. They are truly amazing people and yes, selfless, to do that.
ReplyDeleteHi Pam,
ReplyDeleteAs matter of fact, I do know some people and some lovely bloggers that are doing just this same thing.
I know how selfish I have become so it would be really hard for me to do that as much as I love them. I applaud the people who have taken up that job.
Very interesting post.
No, I don't, but one of my co-workers was raised by her grandparents. It happens more than any of us know. I don't know where I would find the energy, frankly, and my hat goes off to those who step up and do the job.
ReplyDeleteJudy- They truly are!
ReplyDeleteKim- I feel the same way. That's one of the first things that went through my mind should it happen to me. And I wondered if I would be selfless enough to do it. I don't know. But I am in admiration of those who do.
Terri- I don't know where I would find the energy either. And I'm not so sure I'd want to give up my quiet time. Thank God for those who can and will do it though.
I haven't heard of that term and no I don't know anyone who has done that but I know if the situation were to arise I would definitely try to be a GAP parent.
ReplyDeleteDebby- I believe you would and that you would be great at it. I just have to wonder whether I am just to selfish to do it. I guess I won't know unless it happens. I'd like to think I'd jump right in...I just don't know.
ReplyDelete