Sharing with Grandparents Can Demolish Fears

One way to help children through tragedy is to allow them to spend time with their grandparents--giving service if possible.

Alisa had become increasingly afraid after watching current news events about school shootings, tornadoes in the Midwest, mall bombs and shootings. Her mother tried to shield her from such events, but Alisa had friends at school who warned her about all of them.

Alisa and her mom visited her grandmother in a retirement center every Monday afternoon. Mother suggested Alisa tell her grandmother about her fears.

Grandmother held Alisa's hand and listened carefully to her worries. Then grandmother told Alisa that  

“Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.” (Corrie ten Boom) 

Grandmother also told Alisa that love wins out over hate and cuddled her close.

Alisa felt better after telling her grandmother her troubles. She tried to keep her days happy and strong. Each week she and her grandmother talked about how Alisa felt and soon she let go of many of her fears.

Alisa brought a book to read to her grandmother. She drew pictures to share, and they played Old Maid and Go Fish. 

Others at the center came to join in the fun. Soon many of the residents looked forward to their coming. After each visit, Alisa felt happy. She still worried a little, but when she thought of her grandmother, her fears seemed to melt away.

Alisa looked forward to sharing her books and games, and felt a sense of accomplishment in doing so. She also loved talking to her new friends. She could share her troubles with them because they always had time to listen.

Do you have a grandparent or an older friend you could share with?

Try it and let me know how it goes. What advice did they give you?