An old man went to live with his son, daughter-in- law & 4-year old grandson.The old man’s hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered. The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather’s shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. The couple became irritated with the mess.
“We must do something about Grandfather, ” said the son. “I’ve had enough of his spilled milk and food on the floor.” So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl. When the family glanced in Grandfather’s direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.
The 4-year-old watched it all in silence.1 evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor.He asked the child “What are you making?”.The boy responded, “Oh, I am making a little bowl for you & mom to eat your food in when I grow up.”. That evening the husband took Grandfather’s hand and gently led him back to the family table.
Moral: Children are perceptive. If they see us patiently provide a happy home atmosphere for family members, they will imitate that attitude for the rest of their lives.
Moral: Children are perceptive. If they see us patiently provide a happy home atmosphere for family members, they will imitate that attitude for the rest of their lives.
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