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When Grandma Becomes Ma

I have joined the ranks of a growing number of baby boomers who have taken on the task of raising their grandchildren.

No, I'm not doing it because I want to. I'm doing it because it's necessary. I'm doing it because I want my daughter and her son to have a chance to beat the odds and the stereotypes placed on them by the "do-gooders" of our society.

My daughter started college this week in another part of the state. She had the option of taking her soon-to-be-two-year-old with her or leaving him here with me. I chose option B. My daughter is still trying to get her own life together and having her son with her would only get in her way from accomplishing her goals.

The way I see it, my role of being a grandparent is more important than ever. My grandson is among a number of children being raised in single-parent households and as a young black male, the odds are already stacked against him before he can talk.

Being a good grandparent today requires all the wisdom, understanding, patience and love I've acquired throughout my lifetime.

It means grandma wears another hat: "MA"
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Janie said…
AWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!!!!! Ma and I know with the decision you and nate chose to make also came with alot sacrifices I just want to let you know how thankful and appreciative I am. I LOVE YALL. MUAH!!!!!!!!!!
8/19/2008 6:02 PM
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