07 Sep Happy Grandparents Day from a First Timer

There are over 1 billion grandparents in the world. I am proud to say that I am one of the newest – having just become a grandfather to Eden seven months ago. I’ve been a parent for three decades – yet being a grandparent is an entirely new feeling. Age has brought perspective, mindfulness, and, yes, wisdom to parenting.

Grandparents Day, the second Sunday in September, originated at the Hebrew Home at Riverdale, by my father, Jacob Reingold. After attending a White House Conference on Aging in 1961, he was inspired to create a movement that would cherish and recognize grandparents. By 1978, it became a national holiday when then-President Jimmy Carter signed a proclamation. This Grandparents Day is incredibly meaningful to me personally as I celebrate the holiday as CEO of the organization that started this holiday.

Anthropologist Margaret Mead said, “Everyone needs to have access both to grandparents and grandchildren in order to be a full human being.” Indeed. If you are lucky enough to have grandparents in your life, celebrate them this Sunday. Spend time together. Learn about their history. Take a video of them sharing this history. This generation-to-generation connection is meaningful now – and even more so in the years to follow. And, don’t forget to let them in on your life too – share your accomplishments and updates.

Grandparents are a national treasure. And while the older generation is too often perceived as outdated or out of touch, they might surprise you. Just like 105-year-old Rambai did. Check out her story in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0k59WLPnvTw

Happy Grandparents Day to all the grandparents – especially the first-timers!

Dan