"Grandparents who want to be truly helpful will do well to keep their mouths shut and their opinions to themselves until these are requested"
- T. Berry Brazelton
About this Quote
This quote by T. Berry Brazelton talks to the importance of grandparents respecting the autonomy of their grandchildren and their parents. Grandparents need to not impose their viewpoints on their grandchildren or their moms and dads, however rather wait until their opinions are asked for. This enables the grandchildren and parents to make their own decisions and take ownership of their options. Grandparents need to also bear in mind the recommendations they offer, as it can have a long lasting influence on the grandchildren. Grandparents need to be supportive and understanding, and not be overly critical or judgmental. Grandparents should likewise know their own biases and bear in mind how their words may be interpreted. Grandparents ought to be a source of love and support, and not a source of criticism or judgement. Eventually, grandparents must be respectful of their grandchildren and their moms and dads, and wait till their opinions are asked for before providing them.
"One has children in the expectation of dying before them. In fact, you want to make damn sure you die before them, just as you plant a tree or build a house knowing, hoping that it will outlive you. That's how the human species has done as well as it has"
"Well, I think any time you delve into this sort of religion, politics, as you well know, you're going to, you know, touch a few nerves. I wasn't - now - and this is the honest truth"
