Grandparents Day: A Blend of Intuitive Wisdom, Health, and Simplicity

On this special occasion of Grandparents Day, I find myself reminiscing about the extraordinary people who played a pivotal role in shaping my life—my grandparents. 

Growing up in Ethiopia, I had the privilege of being raised by my grandparents. Despite their lack of formal education and living in a third-world country, embodied a wisdom that transcended generations. 

Their simple lifestyle and commitment to health allowed them to live well into their hundreds, leaving an indelible mark on my life. 

Now, in the hustle and bustle of modern-day living here in the US, I strive to blend their timeless wisdom with the conveniences of today. 

This Grandparents Day, I invite you to join me in appreciating and celebrating the invaluable lessons our grandparents imparted, regardless of the worlds they inhabited.

Embracing a Simpler Life

My grandparents lived in a world far removed from today’s digital age. They didn’t have smartphones, social media, or even a television. 

Instead, they cherished the richness of human connection, storytelling, and nature. 

Their traditional home was a sanctuary filled with warmth and laughter, where time moved slowly, allowing for genuine conversations and shared moments. 

In a world that often feels overwhelmed by the constant buzz of technology, I find myself constantly reminded to slow down. To appreciate the simple joys, and nurture meaningful connections.

Prioritizing Health, the Natural Way

My grandparents’ robust health well into their centenary years was a testament to their unwavering commitment to natural living. 

They practiced a lifestyle emphasizing wholesome, locally sourced foods, daily exercise through physical labor, and the healing power of nature’s remedies. 

Their diet consisted of fresh vegetables, grains, and grass-fed meat, with abundant herbs and spices known for their medicinal properties. 

Additionally, my grandparents’ devout fasting and praying habits, deeply ingrained in their Orthodox Christian beliefs.

Not only enriched their spiritual lives but also contributed to their robust physical and mental well-being. It reminds me of the profound connection between faith and health.

While modern science validates these practices today, my grandparents lived proof of their efficacy. 

Their legacy reminds me to prioritize my health through mindful eating, regular physical activity, and embracing nature’s healing gifts.

My grandmother’s culinary prowess was truly exceptional, and her unique recipes, like the delicious Shiro wet, the vibrant Gomen (kale), and her cherished organ meat dishes, hold a special place in my heart. 

I can still recall the rich flavors and the warmth of our family gatherings during Ethiopian holidays, especially when we savored the holiday special Doro Wet, an Ethiopian chicken stew. 

These memories come flooding back every time I prepare Doro Wet. This tradition connects me with the cherished moments spent with my extended family at my grandparent’s house during those festive occasions.

Blending My Grandparent’s Wisdom with Modernity

Now, as I navigate the complexities of modern life in the United States, I find myself at a crossroads where my grandparents’ timeless wisdom meets the conveniences of the 21st century. 

I’ve learned I can embrace technology without losing sight of the simple joys that sustained my grandparents. 

I strive to use social media to connect with loved ones while also savoring face-to-face interactions. 

I celebrate the benefits of modern medicine while exploring the healing potential of traditional remedies. 

In this delicate balance, I find a way to honor my roots while embracing the opportunities of today’s world.

My Grandma’s Legacy: Inspiring Natural Birth and Breastfeeding 

In the tapestry of my grandparents’ wisdom, a thread is particularly close to my heart—my grandmother’s unwavering belief in the power of natural birth and breastfeeding. 

Growing up, I heard stories of how my grandmother gave birth to all her children at home, surrounded by the loving embrace of family. 

Her tales of resilience, strength, and the profound connection she felt with each of her newborns left an indelible mark on my soul.

As I embarked on my own journey into motherhood, I often found myself asking, “What would Emaye, my grandma do?” Her experiences became my compass, guiding me through the maze of labor and delivery. With her spirit as my guiding light, I gave birth naturally, just as she had. 

It was a decision that came with its challenges, but my grandmother’s stories of birthing at home, with a deep trust in the natural process, bolstered my determination.

Breastfeeding

Likewise, regarding breastfeeding, my grandmother’s influence was palpable. She had breastfed all her children, fostering bonds that transcended the physical act of nursing. 

In a world where marketing campaigns for formula products often target new mothers, my grandmother’s unwavering support for breastfeeding was a beacon of authenticity. 

Her encouragement gave me the strength to nourish my children naturally, even when the convenience of formula seemed tempting. 

Her belief in the unparalleled benefits of breast milk became my shield against external pressures.

Looking back, I am profoundly grateful for the legacy my grandmother bestowed upon me. In a society where childbirth and breastfeeding choices are frequently influence by trends and marketing ploys, her timeless wisdom rooted in natural living remains a guiding force. 

As I continue to embrace her teachings and blend them with the conveniences of the modern world, I am reminded that the choices I make as a mother are not just a reflection of the present but a bridge to the wisdom of generations past.

I recently seized the opportunity to visit my beloved grandmother, who is still with us today, and introduce her to her great-grandchildren. 

Navigating the challenges of traveling internationally with two toddlers was no easy feat. And I know they may not fully grasp the significance of the moment now; I’m confident that one day, as they leaf through the pictures and memories of that day, they’ll come to appreciate the profound connection spanning generations.

This Grandparents Day, let’s take a moment to appreciate the invaluable lessons handed down by our grandparents, irrespective of their backgrounds or the eras they lived in. 

Their wisdom, forged through simplicity, health, and resilience, offers timeless guidance for navigating the complexities of modern life. 

As I blend the cherished teachings of my grandparents with the conveniences of today, I am reminded that honoring their legacy is not about recreating their world but infusing it with the essence of their enduring wisdom. 

Happy Grandparents Day to all, and may we continue to learn from and celebrate the remarkable people who shaped our lives.

I would love to hear from you about your relationship with your grandparents. Does their lifestyle and philosophy have positive impacts on your life like it has on mine?