Substitute Grandparents? Not Possible.

“This is Mike, who as the Translation Program Director, is our most direct boss here in Ethiopia…and Mike these are my in-laws, John and Sue.” John and Sue’s visit was full of many such introductions in any of the three languages we now juggle (helping to solidify the “in-law” terminology in both Amharic and Gmz). This particular introduction (with Mike) was unique in that John followed up the introduction with a very sincere comment, “Thank you for taking care of our kids.” Now this is an entirely appropriate remark to the man who has been a supportive and encouraging leader from day one, however, Mike heard the words from a different angle - “Taking care of your kids? Hey, does that mean I am not one of the kids anymore?”

 

Mike, as an outstanding member of the 40-something club, is like many of our co-workers who fall between the generational gaps with regard to us. He certainly is not old enough to be our parent; yet recognizing his 15 years of service in Ethiopia, we can’t help but put them into that “parental” category of respect. Granted, there are people of all ages in every community, where generations blend one into another without awkwardness. However, generational classification becomes an issue in a “mission” community where children commonly address their parents’ coworkers with familial terms. Now, that’s easy for our age-mates whom we can look to as brothers and sisters, or aunties and uncles for Micah. But, we join John on thin ice if we bump someone up the aging ladder, “Hey, give a BIG smile to Grandpa Mike!” I don’t see that going over well.

 

So, I suppose, to be on the safe side, everyone here is an “auntie” or “uncle” to Micah until they promote themselves to honorable title of “grandparent.” Better yet, why don’t we reserve the names “grandpa” and “grandma” for those who truly deserve them. Think about it. What makes a grandparent so GRAND? They give gifts, read books, sing songs, go on walks, make special treats, give more gifts and play and play and play…AND THEN they even lead by example at nap time! In summary, no definition of the English word “grandparent” is adequate without employing some form of the word “spoil.” Yes siree, Grandma and Grandpa Rockey have proven themselves to be GREAT grandparents (yes, John, that is intended to make you feel old!). Now, even Micah knows better and can attest to the universal truth: nobody spoils better then a real GRANDparent! These mission community substitutes just don’t cut it.