Sympathy Letters as Memorial Stones
A Memorial Stone is a memory token. God carved His Ten Commandments on two stones so the children of Israel wouldn’t forget His words. We can instill Memorial Stones in our grandchildren’s hearts through our written words.
Our grandchildren go through some tragic events. My step-granddaughter Lydia found her six-month-old French Bulldog puppy dead recently. She put the dog in his kennel Tuesday night, December 4, 2024. The dog climbed to the top of the kennel overnight. His collar got caught in the wire. He hung himself.
Lydia found the puppy Wednesday morning. Panicked, she ran to her neighbor’s house for help. The neighbor drove Lydia and the dog to the veterinarian. The dog couldn’t be revived.
What a tragedy! Lydia felt unfathomable grief. She was despondent for several days.
I encouraged my wife to see Lydia and her mother 400 miles away. My wife left the next morning. Lydia was surprised and comforted to see my wife when she arrived Thursday afternoon. Lydia’s Mom bought Lydia a new French Bulldog that day. The dog was home when Lydia arrived from school.
I wrote the following letter to Lydia and mailed it December 10:
“I understand your grief, Lydia. I’m very sorry for your loss. It was an accident. You’ll always have this memory but God will help you through this. God enlarges our hearts to love and accept something or somebody new who comes into our lives. I’m here to support you. I love you and appreciate you.
– Rick
Lydia may forget the letter I sent, but it may have touched her. I’ve written her other encouraging letters and comments over the years. Remember, the Bible says, “In two or three things these words be confirmed.” (Matthew 18:16)
Establish times to send your grandchildren spiritual notes when important things happen to you and them for their encouragement. You’ll touch their lives for good and they’ll remember your character.
They may come to Jesus because of your words.
A Certified Life Coach and Certified Biblical Counselor, Richard Szalecki’s (pronounced, “Sah-LEH-key”) greatest strength is is compassion. His heart is filled with a deep, deep caring and love for others. He loves to share his inspiring stories of healing, hope and recovery. He and his wife live in Florida and are excited to welcome their first grandchild in February 2025.
Image Created by Andy Oldham using DeepAI
Grandchildren are very precious and wonderful blessings of God. We as adults as Grandparents need to do exactly what you have recommended. We live 2000 miles from two of our grandchildren.. My only communication is via text or email…. both children are deaf.
My letters from their grandpa do make a difference. Not because I say they do… but because of their loving response. It has been an opportunity for me to talk about faith, hope, courage, and love.
I sent my letters and texts to encourage and to bless…. I am the one who has been encouraged and blessed because of their interaction with me and to see the changes God is bringing into their lives.
Papa moose