After a very hectic week, I happily accepted an invitation to dinner from a friend of mine. During the evening, she brought out a special book she had been reading. As she related some of its contents, I asked if I could share the idea with you.

About 25 years ago, one of her relatives had given a brand-new journal to her elderly father as a Christmas gift. On the first page, she wrote:

Papa,

I want you to use this book over the next year to record your thoughts. I want to know all the things you found through life to be meaningful, all the things that made you laugh, all the advice (if there’s a book large enough for that), and anything you think I’ll need to know after you’re not around to tell me. You may want to take advantage of the fact that your grandchildren will also be able to read this.

I don’t want you to feel you have to write a sermon or be pressured. Just when you think of things or memories or even just a thought, date it and write it down.

I am expecting to receive this back as my gift next Christmas.

Love and kisses,

J

J’s Papa went to be with the Lord less than six months later, but he left some precious memories for the family. His wife took over where he left off and added more memories, thoughts, clippings, stories and pictures that meant a lot to her and her husband.

The book is now ‘on loan’ to my friend, who is enjoying reading about the lives and the faith shared in these hand-written memoirs from so long ago.

Something you might want to think about

What are some ways you can learn more about life from your aging parents or grandparents? What kinds of things would you want them to tell you?

If you were given such a gift, what kinds of things would you want to journal and give back to members of your family?