10 things I learned from my grandmother
I think it’s a national or generational trait that the role of the grandmother used to be a pivotal one. In my home country Bulgaria grandparents are usually the ones taking care about the children as their parents spend most of their time working. That was the case with me as well. Both my grandmothers played an important role in my shaping as a personality.
My father’s mother passed away a few years ago. It happened unexpectedly, at least for me. She was the second member of our family to pass away, and such an event was still extraordinary for me. I remember few days before that happened, I found the most beautiful lilac flowers to give her as a present.
My mother’s mother left us the first days of a very warm December. On that day we celebrate students in Bulgaria, so young people are traditionally having parties throughout the country. She liked celebrations of all kinds, and I heard multiple stories about her youth when she and my grandfather were constantly partying. Gathering at one’s home, with some meze and rakia, women singing and dancing, my grandfather playing the guitar. It sounds surreal as nowadays we usually meet with friends making appointments weeks and months in advance, in a restaurant nearby. I thought she meticulously chose that day, as she probably missed partying and happy time from her youth. I’m also grateful to her for these valuable 10 things she taught me (or even more).
1. Always choose the highest quality
It refers to both goods and services. I particularly like this one as I think it also reflects our attitude towards ourselves.
2. Make yourself familiar with what does “high quality” mean
It goes with the first one and it can definitely open up a whole new different perspectives for you in many life areas. Here it’s not about money or price, it’s about value. For instance, where you can find the best croissant?
3. Keep in contact with people
Call friends, or people who are important to you. I even have a friends who puts reminders for that. It makes a difference.
4. Remember birthday dates
My grandmother remembered them all. Unlike her, I still struggle with the exact dates of some close relatives. Thankfully, we have Facebook reminders today 😊
5. Don’t raise your voice when you talk to people
She never did that. I tried to remember a case, but I couldn’t. My grandmother was always using polite and calm voice when she addressed people. And it created that atmosphere of positivity which everyone enjoyed.
6. Surround yourself with beauty
Be it a fresh flower, nice painting, or beautiful clothes.
7. If not – keep it neat and tidy.
I realized what is crucial for maintaining a calm mind is the surroundings to be kept up neat and tidy.
8. Help to the less fortunate of you.
In my home country Bulgaria one of the exams before going to high school is on Bulgarian language and literature with some special critical analysis essay that children need to learn. Usually, they take private lessons for that, that are quite expensive. My grandmother helped at least two of my cousins who couldn’t afford it, with these exams for free.
9. Don’t fall into the negative emotions trap.
10. Party! Dance and sing whenever you can!
She was notoriously known for waking up at 4 am every morning to listen to national Bulgarian songs on the national radio. In the afternoon sometimes I could find her home, watching music programme, singing and dancing to the extent possible for her age.
Thank you, grandma for your lessons, for your love and care!
