I was excited and proud when I heard that my oldest grandson, Daryian, was now a manager of his own PF Changs restaurant in Denver. However, I am going to confess that I also stepped into my fears and imagination as a grandpa. My first fear was for his safety in the big city. Next came the fear the store would fail, or they’d work him too long and hard, causing burnout, or having to handle difficult employees, or having a demanding manager above him. Then my imagination went the other way where the restaurant would be successful. He’d then permanently move to Denver, getting caught up in the success, venture into alcohol, drugs, and loose women. I wouldn’t be there to protect and guide him in any of this, as if I could. After a few deep breaths and some quiet time with prayer, meditation and my journaling, I was able to laugh at myself. What I learned from this is that as a grandparent it’s difficult to allow grandchildren the experiences and all the lessons they need in life to become healthy adults. We have no capacity to control another’s life or to interfere in their lives. I do wish him all the success he deserves. I couldn’t be a prouder grandpa! Congratulations Daryian!!!!
8 Comments
Faye White
It’s natural to initially react with fear for the safety of our loved ones, especially with the waves of needless violence today. That being said, congratulations Daryian!
Monte Stevens
Thank you, Faye. We all are proud of him. I must say he is a hard worker and believe he’ll do just fine.
Earl
Yelp, little ‘birdies’ grow up and leave the nest and enjoy the freedom to make their own decisions and sometimes mistakes. You may never hear of most of those mistakes, but I’ve got to believe that Daryian knows you’re there and you have his back, which gives him the comfort and courage to explore life.
Congratulations Daryian (and Monte!) 😉
P.S. Love the photo!
Monte Stevens
You are correct on not hearing about those mistakes. I still have some that my parents don’t know about. Not that long ago my daughters were talking about drinking episodes when they were in high school. I had to ask them to not share any more with me. I am proud of all the accomplishments my grandchildren have already had in life.
Geri Oster
Monte, what a swell picture of you and your grandson! I thought that you shared beautifully the mental and spiritual process we all go through with our loved ones as change and growth are happening in their lives. Ultimately, we can only find our peace when we can trust that they too have a Higher Power that loves and cares for them even more than we do. Congratulations Daryian! You are so fortunate to have Monte as your loving and caring Grandpa.
Monte Stevens
Thank you, Geri. And, thanks for the reminder they have a Higher Power that loves them more than I do.
Mark
That’s cool and great photo. I am actually a big fan of PF Changs – we eat at our local one quite a bit. Great atmosphere and food.
Monte Stevens
I to do not eat there very often even though Daryian works there. It’s also a longer drive than I want to make. I will need to try the to-go restaurant and see what that’s like. Glad you like it!!