Stand-in Grandpa

Recently, our elementary school conducted interviews with potential teachers. The head principal, and the other two assistants are all a generation younger than me. So, as we introduced ourselves (on camera) to a twenty-something-year-old applicant, I quipped, “Obviously, I’m the elder statesman here.” Without missing a beat, my boss interjected, “Yes, David’s our ‘grandpa.’”

 I nodded and smiled, but inside I retorted, “Hold up. I’m old enough to be some of our teachers’ fathers, but not grandfather!” Later, I remembered a cafeteria conversation I had with a student during lunch: “My mom is 28 and my dad is 30.” That’s the same age as my two oldest children.  Fair enough, maybe my boss has a point.

 But I’m still not technically a grandfather, because none of my three adult sons have children. But then it hit me: being a grandparent involves more than DNA, it’s also a role you play in someone else’s life.  What my principal meant is I am like a grandpa to many of our students. Being a grandfather is a relationship, as much as a biological reality. 

 Now, when someone calls me grandpa, I nod, smile, and say to myself, “That’s right. I’m a professional role model for younger generations”

“One generation commends you works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.” Psalm 145:4 (NIV)

David Duncan is an ordained Southern Baptist minister turned elementary school administrator. He and his wife have three grown sons, but no grandchildren. They live in the Midwestern United States, with their Schnauzer, Cooper. David blogs at davidsdailydose.org, where he shares positive thoughts from a Christian perspective.