Did I say I became a grandparent for the first time on September 16, 2010? My son also became a father for the first time of a beautiful and healthy son. One of the greatest moments a family can share is the birth of a child and in time, a grandchild. We have experienced many untimely deaths of family and friends, many of whom died too young, leaving gaping holes in our lives.

The emergence of new life is a joy strong enough to diminish the sorrows of death. My first grandchild will always be a reminder to me of the fragility of life and how we must do everything we can to nurture it. I am forming my role of a grandmother in my mind on a daily basis and demanding more of myself now to meet those needs.

I must always keep in mind that I am not the parent, but the grandparent, and this requires patience and understanding. It is not easy for me to step back and let someone else take responsibility. I often have to hold my tongue and not interfere. This will be my greatest task to bear. I must be ever more sensitive and considerate of others more than myself.

Life is very precious.