The grandfather, appreciating the innocence of his grandson's suggestion, smiles and gently responds, "I have lived a long and fulfilling life, witnessing countless wonders. Now, with a few more months if God allows, my time has come."
"Grandfather," the grandson said, "I know you've lived a long and fulfilling life, accomplishing so much. But before you depart, I have a humble request. Would you kindly write down all the stories you've shared with me, those precious bedtime tales? It would mean the world to me to have something of you to hold onto."
Touched by his grandson's plea, the grandfather was deeply moved. He swiftly grabbed a notebook and painstakingly transcribed every story he had lovingly recounted over the years. Despite the challenge of recalling every intricate detail, he poured his heart onto the pages, ensuring the essence was captured. After approximately two weeks, he presented the completed notebook to his grandson
The young boy eagerly devoured each story in the notebook, and as he reached the final page, tears welled up in his eyes. Holding the notebook tightly, he approached his grandfather, who gently wiped away the tears and asked, "Why are you crying? Is it because these stories aren't exactly the same as the ones I've told you before? I'm sorry, my memory isn't what it used to be..."
Before his grandfather could finish, the grandson interjected, "No, grandfather, it's not that. These stories are incredible, and they have touched me deeply. They have proven to me that you can live on forever."
A warm smile spread across the grandfather's face as he responded, "I agree that these stories will endure even after I'm gone, but they are only stories, not me."
The grandson replied, "Maybe they are just stories to you, but when I read them and allow your words to touch my heart, I feel your presence beside me. Even after I finish reading, your soul lingers within me, carrying your wisdom."
The grandfather became emotional and began to cry, and the grandson gently wiped away his tears before speaking further. "I'm not sure if I can return the part of your soul that now resides within me, and I'm not sure if I even want to. Although I may not fully grasp all of your stories, I know that I will always remember them. They will forever live within me, alongside your soul, for as long as I live."
The grandfather was overwhelmed with emotions and thoughts, some joyful and others sorrowful, but the grandson had not yet finished speaking...
"Through your stories, grandfather, you have shared your perspective and wisdom with me. I want you to know that they will never fade away. You will always be with me, residing in my heart. You will be my constant companion and guide, as your stories hold immense wisdom that originated from you."
The moral:
According to the insightful words of the grandson in this story, we can understand that regardless of our age, we all desire to extend our time on earth. However, the day will inevitably arrive for each of us. Yet, our impact on others does not cease after our passing. By sharing our wisdom, perspective, and life experiences with others, our souls will continue to live on within them. Our ideas and perspective will also endure. It is essential to impart our wisdom to our loved ones, family, and the next generation. It may appear that they are not interested at present, but these will be the most significant legacies that will remain within their souls. One day, they will come to appreciate the stories and words of wisdom from those who are no longer physically present, but still live on in their hearts.
