A Tribute to Grandparents Raising Their Grandchildren

In honor of Grandparents Day in September

A Tribute to Grandparents Raising Their Grandchildren

Thank You 

We take this time to celebrate you for all you’ve done,

For caring for your granddaughter and your grandson

You took on this awesome task that no one else could do,

Because no one loves and cares for your grandchild quite like you.

You had the courage to start all over again,

Raising your grandchildren at an age when

You thought you might retire, travel and rest,

But the children needed caregivers, and they needed the best.

Some came to you in pampers and most in tears,

Needing nurturing and someone who cares.

Others came as toddlers, exploring the world on the run,

You couldn’t believe this happened—after all, you thought you were done.

Still others came at school age, when they needed guidance and direction,

Science may have you baffled but you are great at giving affection.

And some of you have teenagers, oh my, what can I say?

Just keep reminding yourself that they won’t stay this way.

We know it hasn’t been easy—it’s often quite a heavy load,

And there have been many bumps in the road.

You’ve been misunderstood, labeled and denied the services you need,

Often criticized and not recognized for your labor or good deeds.

But we honor you who have done so much,

To change the lives of children with your special touch

We thank you grandparents: we thank you once, we thank you twice,

And know you are appreciated for the rest of your life.

Thank you, grandparents.

Rolanda Pyle (c)  All rights Reserved

About the Contributing Writer

ROLANDA T. PYLE is an author and a  licensed social worker, who has worked in the field of aging for years. 

The author has also been featured on various radio and television programs. Her numerous awards include the distinguished 2004 Sloan Public Service Award and HBO's 2004 Beah Richards Spirit Award. In April 2004, New York's Daily News named her one of the "100 Women Who Shape Our City" for her work with grandparents who are raising their grandchildren.

In addition to her social work and her writing, Rolanda volunteers with the NYC Meals on Wheels Senior Chat program through which she provides companionship through weekly phone conversations with isolated seniors.

Rolanda is the author of the books "Grandma's Hands" - a children's story book, and "Finally" - a collection of inspirational poems; and the compiler of and contributor to "Beneath His Everlasting Wings," a collection of devotionals. She has also contributed to numerous journals, anthologies, magazines and other publications.  Rolanda’s creative writing has won poetry and short story writing awards. Her work has been published in religious and community newspapers and featured in the 50in50 writing contests with the Billie Holiday Theater.

If you would like to learn more about Rolanda T. Pyle, visit her website at https://www.roroscommunications.com/