The bond that comes with time...then fades away.

For the first half of my life, I spent a lot of time trying to build meaning full relationships with my grandparents - my grandmothers, in particular.  It was difficult to say the least.  For one of them there was a language barrier;  For both there was a culture barrier.  I did what I could to win them over, for what grandchild doesn't want their grandparents to look at them adoringly?  But no matter how hard I tried, I never felt like I was the grand-daughter they expected me to be.  Being the headstrong little girl that I was, my previously fleeting efforts to win them over turned into pointless defenses that were often considered impolite.  But what was I to do?  I can't say my decision to be somewhat cold and bitter towards them was either warranted or appropriate, but it occurred, nonetheless.  I quickly felt whatever closeness I had managed to savor fade away and I only grew to feel more and more estranged and bitter.  By the time I was fifteen, I had lost both of my grandmothers.  I was not as torn up as I should have been, but it was obvious that I was affected by these losses.  Now, at nineteen, I can see how stupid and childish my behavior was.  Every child has their fits and tantrums - it's unfortunate that mine cannot be resolved.  I know that they both knew that I loved them very much and I know the same with regards to them, but I would be lying if I said I didn't have regrets.  I suppose my purpose to this post is to warn - a warning I hope all will heed.  Life is short - you've heard it before.  But for every moment that slips away, you lose a moment of opportunity - whether it be education, love, service, or simply relaxation.  Do not let time out of your grasp, for once you do, it slips away far too fast.