Postlife Facetime

Last night I planned our post-life face time video for the grandchildren. It goes something like this.

Hello, grandchildren. At this point in time, February 2012, you enjoy talking on the phone with papa and me through video, called face-time. I began thinking that it might be good to do a videotape for when I’m not around, and you can watch it and pretend you’re face-timing me. I plan to be around for a long time still, but I wanted to start it now while I still look fairly OK. Yes, I know, it is kind of funny that old people have vanity.

Anyway, the first thing I would want to tell you is how very very much I love you. Words are not enough to express how well you are loved. And besides, last time I said “I love you” on the phone, Maddie said, “I know.” And I know you love me, too, even when you are mad at me, but still I have to say I adore you.

Grandparents are supposed to hand on words of wisdom. I don’t feel very wise, but I like the writings of the Dalai Lama, the one we have now, in 2012. He says kindness and compassion are the keys to leading a good life. Be kind to each other and to your own selves too. Have compassion for others. You are sweet, happy, intelligent grandchildren, so I assume you will learn what compassion means.

Grandparents are supposed to give good advice. The only advice that I know for sure IS good advice, that will actually work and save you pain and trouble, is this: floss your teeth. We only get our one body, and we want it to last, so we have to take good care of it. Because of the nature of germs and bodily inflammation, which I trust you will eventually learn about, flossing your teeth greatly increases your probability of good health and long life. Really, it does.

You should also eat right, so you should read “Grandma’s Gruel.” You used to like it when you were very young.

Right now Maddie, you are four and well on your way to being a centered, self directed, self possessed young lady. Right now, Ryan you are not quite two, your favorite number, and the smilingest little guy I ever saw. I hope you will retain your sweetness and light as you grow up. Right now, Sam, you are an infant, a cute  little baby, and you had to face some real challenges when you were first born. The sturdiness you have shown so far should stand you in good stead as you grow.