Building a Circle of Support

www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com by Karen Best Wright

We have been raising our three granddaughters for 5 1/2 years now. The first word of advice that I would give to any grandparent in this situation is to build a strong circle of support for yourself as well as your grandchildren. There are no grandparent support groups anywhere near where I live, and I have not been successful in developing one,yet. However, I have still been able to build a very strong circle of support for myself as well as my grandchildren.

My girls have seen the same pediatrician over the years, I make myself well known (positively) to their teachers, principal, and school personnel. We belong to a small but strong church congregation, and I am close to my mother and my sisters, even though they live clear across the country from me. It is amazing how cell phones and computers can keep us connected to so many friends and loved ones. Plus, I am fortunate that my best friend is one of my grown daughters who is an inspiring woman.

Creating this circle of support is not only important to help us in the moment, but may be what cushions us from the blows of adversity in the future. So my suggestion is to make friends (they don't need to be your own age), become involved in your community and a church, share with others the positive things in your life. When we share our energy and light with others, it may very well be what comes back to light our own path in a time of great need.

Comments

[Helen]

I, too, am attempting to start a support group in my rural area and would be interested in suggestions from others as to how to promote it. A circle of support is vital. We have strong family connections and a support church.

[Elon Block]

This is a confirmation to me that I am not alone, and it is ok to ask for help, support, advice, and so on.

Those days of thinking I am Superman and can do it on my own are over.

Thanks for the reminder!