When we get older, we tend to appreciate old folks more. Not necessarily because we ourselves are getting older and can easier identify with them, no. But because they may not be there anymore to tell their stories, and we realize what we’ve missed. The missed opportunities to just having them around, and having them tell their stories. About themselves, about our parents, about our family history. Who else is gonna do that but they?

On a more general note, old folks have a thing or two to tell the younger generations. All sorts of things that they have learned and gone through and would like to pass on. But our grandparents, uncles, aunts and other older family members can tell us things on a more personal note. Things that may come to mean to us more than we realize. Not all of it is nice, and some of it might even be best left unheard. But you will never know which if you don’t ask them in the first place.

So ask them when they are still around. Ask, and record it somehow. Don’t make the mistake of relying on your memory. Use audio, video, paper - whatever comes in handy - and record it somehow.

For the fact is, one day they won’t be here to tell their stories. One day there might be no one to ask face to face about things that would interest the older you. So while there is still time, ask them. Ask about all sorts of things, even silly things that might lead to something bigger. Most of your questions would get an answer, some not. But it doesn’t hurt to ask, and like said, you just never know where the answers might lead.

And while you are asking, don’t forget to give them a hug. Because it feels good, and it just might trigger a memory in you later on.