Dear Annie: Thereâs value in the stories grandparents can pass down

Dear Annie: I realize how lucky I was growing up. I had a wonderful grandmother (and great grandfather) with a ton of fun and interesting stories. I grew up around a lot of old people, all of whom treated me like an equal and gave me personal history stories. Now, I am the only one in the family who knows the stories, and thus, the history of the family.

I ended up as the family repository for old pictures, letters (from WWI and WWII). And, though I wasn’t blessed with children of my own, I have children of cousins who want to know these stories. Now, I am blessed to have the memories from “the old folks.” — Family Historian

Dear Family Historian: I love your letter because it highlights the importance of grandparents in children’s lives. Most have had life experiences that others can grow and learn from. Storytelling and passing along wisdom are some of the most important gifts we can give to our youth. Keep passing it along.

Read more Dear Annie and other advice columns.

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].