I often find myself envious when I see someone holding their grandpa’s hand. I didn’t have one of my own, but I had my uncle, Papa Atilio. Every good trait I carry forward—patience, work ethic, kindness—comes from him.
He taught me to read, laughing with me through the Sunday funnies. He showed me that whatever work you take on, you do it with pride. He was a carpenter by trade, a father figure, a cook, and even a silly dancer. I remember walking with him to the neighborhood market in the late afternoon, skies streaked with red and purple. Those sunsets still feel like a hug from him.
Years later, I see his legacy in my own children. My middle son, named after him, once made a simple school craft: a keychain with beads in the colors of the Italian and Mexican to remember our spring and summer trips, alongside sunset hues to remind us of “Papa Atilio Skies.”
To all that is good in me, and all that is good in my kids, I owe it to him.
This story is not just nostalgia. Research shows grandparents are essential pillars in families today:
Over 6.7 million adults in the U.S. live with a grandchild, with about 33% serving as the primary caregiver.
Grandparents collectively invest more than $60 billion every year supporting their grandchildren—averaging nearly $4,000 per child annually.
Around 20% of grandparents see their grandchildren weekly, a connection proven to reduce feelings of isolation.
Experts call grandparents society’s “reserve army”—filling critical gaps in childcare, household support, and even financial stability.
These numbers show what many of us already know in our hearts: grandparents are not just family members, they are anchors of love, stability, and wisdom.
As our parents and grandparents age, decisions about where and how to live become deeply personal. For some families, this means:
Downsizing from a long-time home into a more manageable space.
Transitioning to senior living or assisted facilities where care and community are close by.
Relocating closer to children and grandchildren to stay connected to the heartbeat of family life.
These moves can feel overwhelming. But with licensed, insured movers who understand complex moves and the importance of safeguarding memories—not just furniture—the process can become a bridge to peace of mind.
Just as Papa Atilio passed on lessons and legacy, the spaces we create for our elder loved ones should honor their history while giving them freedom and dignity for the years ahead.
Grandparents Day reminds us to celebrate those who shaped us. I celebrate the love and resilience my uncle gave me. At the same time, I resist the hate, racism, and systemic injustices that strip dignity from people based on how they look, the language they speak, or the work they do.
As families, we can celebrate and resist by making thoughtful choices for our elders—choices rooted in respect, connection, and care.
Because in the end, it’s not just about where we live, but about who we love and the legacy we carry forward. For me, those memories will always be painted across the evening sky—Papa Atilio Skies.