There must be many grandparents who feel as this writer does about those precious
days when the little ones were tiny.
MEMORIES OF ANOTHER LIFE
STELLA LEONARD
Now that my grandchildren are grown up, their childhood seems like a life- time ago.Niki is 23 and completed her honours degree in psychology a year ago. She has
established a career in human resources and so far is enjoying it immensely. Kate
celebrated her 21st birthday last September, and has recently taken up a position as
conference co-ordinator at Gold Reef City. In my other life they were small bundles of
energy who listened to what I had to say, and often thought I was right.
However, the tables have turned. They now know far more than I do, and it is to Kate
I turn when the intricacies of a cell phone need explaining. Niki has assumed the roll
of personal chauffeur, and reverses my car out of their long driveway whenever I
visit. They are both kind and considerate adults, but the problem is, I now feel like the
child.
Here is a poem written about 15 years ago when Grandad and I were still firmly in
charge.
THE PANTOMIME
Two little girls dressed so smart
Came to visit me.
They helped me wash the dishes.
Then we had a cup of tea.
Grandad read his paper,
While we brushed and combed our hair.
Then we journeyed to Johannesburg,
The pantomime to share.
It was a lovely evening,
With stars all shining bright,
As we jostled in the foyer
On this very special night.
First we bought some chocolates,
Before we saw the show.
Then settled on red velvet seats,
And watched the lights dim low.
The actors started singing.
The curtain it did rise,
And all the magic of the scene,
Unveiled before our eyes.
The hero of the story
Is brave, courageous Jack,
Who climbed the magic beanstalk,
To bring Princess Raspberry back.
He saves her from the giant,
And they flee into the night,
With the hen who lays the golden eggs,
A very pretty sight.
Jack’s mother is astounded,
And all she wishes now,
Is to have her daughter married,
And to see her old brown cow.
Behind the scenes a fairy,
Waves her magic wand,
And Daisy cow is home again,
Beside the village pond.
So all is well that ends well.
Our story has been told,
And we leave the world of make believe,
Where Jack was brave and bold.
Two little girls are dreaming,
Far away in sleep.
Maybe they visit 'Panto Land',
To take another peep!
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