The relatives were having a pleasant evening with the grandparents, who were staying the night at their son’s home. It was a homey visit that was warm, included familiar memories and offered a peaceful quiet only close family enjoys.
Late in the evening, Grandpa went into the bathroom and looked inside the medicine cabinet just to see what was in there. Then, he found a bottle of those well-known blue pills, the ones that are always advertised during late-night TV. Laughing quietly, he made up his mind to ask his son about his problems.
In the evening, Grandpa walked up to his son and said, “I noticed something interesting was left out in your cabinet.” Can I have a try with your medication?”
The son didn’t know whether to laugh or get concerned. “Hey dad,” he began, “I believe this isn’t a great plan.” The equipment is strong and can be very expensive.
Grandpa, ignoring their answer, said, “What is the cost?”
The son sighed deeply. We are each going to give ten dollars.
With one stroke, Grandpa gave a grin. It’s alright with me. I would still like to give one a try. I think I’ll put the money under my pillow the night before we go. Thus all the parts are aligned to fit perfectly.
The son woke up the next day after his grandparents had gone; he then went to clean the guest room. Half expecting just sheets folded tidily and a small thank-you, he walked into the room. What he uncovered instead was $110 in crisp bills sitting nicely under the pillow.
A little perplexed and mildly shaken, he contacted his father at once. He said this at the top of his voice: “Dad!” “Don’t call them one hundred and ten dollars; as I just told you, I said each one is ten!”
For a moment there was only silence as Grandpa tried not to laugh. Of course, I realize that, son. Just want to let you know – I got enough food for what we plan.”
That short sentence explained exactly who Grandpa was. A willing participant in fun ideas—not matter how much extra I had to pay. He made everyone remember that age does not define the ability to remain young in spirit.
That moment became something we always chat about during family events or during mealtime. Everyone who knew and loved Grandpa laughed, groaned and grinned with affection at his sayings. Even if it was a little more expensive than they planned, his son and the rest of the family still loved the joke and the memory.
The reason that overnight visit was so special was not the amount we spent, but the laughter, love and the lesson that joy sometimes appears unexpectedly.