By Governor Earl Ray Tomblin
As Governor, I have had the amazing opportunity to experience many treasures of the Mountain State. From our friends and neighbors who welcome visitors with true West Virginia hospitality to our beautiful landscape views, we are blessed to live in a place that truly is almost heaven.
I love to share the place I call home with family. Our families are the roots of our past, present and future, and they provide us with stories to tell and lasting memories that are passed from generation to generation. This weekend, we come together to celebrate our families’ greatest treasures – our grandparents – who are part of a generation of West Virginians who have seen more, done more and experienced more than many of us.
In 1973, Grandparents Day was founded by West Virginia native Marian Lucille McQuade of Fayette County. With the help of her husband, Joseph, she petitioned Congress and our nation’s governors to set aside a day to honor and recognize grandparents across the country. Five years later, President Jimmy Carter signed legislation declaring Grandparents Day a national holiday.
Looking back, I’m amazed at the McQuade family history. With 15 children, 43 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild, their family serves as a remarkable reminder of the importance of recognizing family who have made such an impact on our lives.
Many of today’s grandparents play both supporting and leading roles, which is why each year with them is another year to be cherished. For many of us, they are the eyes that see us for who we truly are and what we can become. They are the first ones there to offer us a guiding hand if we stumble or stray off life’s path. They listen to every word we share and offer their best advice based on a lifetime of practice and understanding. Our grandparents share in our past, enjoy our present and provide us with wisdom for our future. Most of all, grandparents offer a source of unfailing love and countless memories that we will cherish for years to come.
As for me, I have many fond memories of my grandparents and am grateful for the lasting impression they have had on my life. Their life lessons were never in short supply as they taught me the value of a dollar, how to can vegetables to last through a long winter and, most importantly, the importance of showing respect and love to all.
I encourage you and your family to join me in this year’s celebration of national Grandparents Day this Sunday, September 7. Whether you invite them to lunch, call just to say hello or stop by for a surprise visit, the smallest gesture will mean more to them than you will ever know. Our grandparents should be treasured and our gratitude should be expressed every chance we get.
