Dear Emma and Lili,
When I think about you, my two angel granddaughters going to kindergarten, my heart just flip-flops. I remember vividly that exciting moment when your Papa and I were told we were going to be grandparents. And then about a month later, we were told another grandchild would grace our lives. More excitement! I remember the day each of you was born as though it happened yesterday. And it seems like yesterday to me, not some five and a half years ago. You girls are five weeks to the day apart, and that timing is miraculous. Your moms are sisters, (and they are still my little girls) and close in age and you two always say you are best friends. You’re also cousins but a BFF suggests a bond even stronger than cousins. May you always share such love for each other and such joy at being together.
Starting school is a big step in a long journey of growing up. Parents work very hard to literally work themselves right out of a job. A parent teaches responsibility, independence and a host of other qualities to children. Being “all grown up” doesn’t magically happen when a child turns 18 or 21. It happens gradually, with each learned task, with each time a child is instructed about the better choice, and with each instance of having to experience the consequences of a poor decision. Parental diligence and patience require more effort and energy than leniency. The tough part, of course, is knowing when to discipline and when to look the other way.
Emma and Lili, you are blessed with incredible parents and with family members who love you abundantly. Someday you will be called to share with others a generous measure of your many blessings. It’s in sharing and giving that you will discover true meaning and happiness in life. As smart as you both are even now, you’re children and such lessons are often beyond your grasp. Your parents will continue to teach you good choices and hopefully, you’ll gain wisdom through their instruction and the example of others.
Your Grandma and Grandpa have acquired much knowledge to share with you. Sometimes the lessons may seem boring, but you’ll learn early that experience, either yours or others, is a great teacher and motivator. We hope school is always a positive in your lives. And while some days will seem ordinary, we want you to love learning for the joy of discovering new ideas. Not just for grades or recognition, but for the sheer pleasure of knowing more about the world and the people in it.
There are so many things we could tell you, sweet girls, but for now, just remember: everyone, even the teacher, is anxious and a bit scared those first few days. None of your friends has a perfect life. Some may seem to because they have more toys or electronics or prettier clothes, but trust us on this, everyone struggles in life. Be a true friend. Be loyal and kind and generous. You’ll never regret being a thoughtful person, but you will regret hurting people.
Think happy thoughts, talk to God throughout the day, and remember how very much you are loved!
Welcome to Kindergarten, Emma and Lili!!
Love, Grammie