Lake Region—Tucked away in their rooms or maybe forgotten in a facility are many grandparents who are disconnected from family due to age and health. Yet students at Calvin Center School in Cassopolis, Mich., are discovering that these grandparents have life stories that could serve as a map for their own futures.

On Sept. 15, the Calvin Center School held a Grandparents Day Luncheon sponsored by the Home and School organization. The event was held to celebrate and honor grandparents, and the contributions and sacrifices they have made in the lives of future generations.

The 34 guests of honor were escorted to their tables where they enjoyed a delicious three-course Italian dinner while listening to their own grandchildren recite poetry and sing songs. The grandparents also appreciated seeing their grandsons perform the duties of gentleman, escorting the granddaughters like princesses.

Beginning with the youngest, each grandparent was recognized and honored with a special gift. Words cannot describe the joy expressed on each face when they received the honor given them. The monarch of all the grandparents that day was Mable Harvey who holds the record at 104 years of age.

While this may seem to be a simple lunch, with simple music and simple poetry, moments like these provide memories that will linger in the minds of the grandparents and the grandchildren alike. Let us follow the example of the students of the Calvin Center School and celebrate those who have journeyed long by taking time to do the simple things that bring them joy.

Jadon and Annamaria Miller, communications department, Calvin Center School