Many older people don’t want any more Stuff for the holidays. They’re trying to clear out, streamline, de-clutter. But what they could use is this: a dose of affirmation, a breath of humor, a unique window into the spirituality of their experience. Even this book’s proof-reader said it was like having a cup of hot tea under a warm blanket!
A Generous Lap offers affirmation of what grandparents do naturally—love the grandkids.While not skirting the challenges and difficulties, it shows how for many, a renewed involvement with children can lead to the unveiling and flourishing of the truest, best self. The book interweaves two themes: the experiences of one grandparent, and the spirituality which saturates it.
Grandparents learn from unique small people, sent into our lives at this precise moment to teach exactly what we need for the final chapter. In Grandparent School, there are no tests nor grades, but what stakes could be higher than contributing to the growth and development of a healthy human being? And it’s not just about Biology. Fr. Richard Rohr coined the term “grand parent” (note the space between words) to refer to people of a certain age who’ve grown so spacious and comfortable, children and adults feel safe around them.
At this stage of life, the frenzied pursuits of earlier years can be set aside. When we’re no longer intent on accomplishing, proving, and attaining our own goals, we can marvel at God’s work. The professional wardrobe and the identity that went with it no longer seem important when the lucky grandparent is chosen as “base” for tag.
For some, the path to wholeness is grandparenting. Why are we given the chance to grandparent? Maybe to grow closer to God later in life, or to find our truest self. We discover again that humans who make serious mistakes can still be channels for grace.
These excerpts give hints of what the book contains—other bonuses are its cover art (“Jesus Has a Sleepover with his Grandparents”), questions for reflection or discussion, interviews with active grandparents, and profiles of those who have had remarkable influence on later generations.
To order, call Orbis Books, 800-258-5838, or see their website: https://orbisbooks.com/
Register for an online Advent Day of Prayer with Kathy Coffey December 2:
https://futurechurch.org/event/?=272 (free will offering)
Kathy Coffey 
Hi – I purchased two copies a month or so ago for Grands that I know! Even though not yet a grandparent, I read one copy, and loved it, before gifting it! Thank you, God, for Kathy!