Forgive Them, That's All They Know
I get impatient when my parents repeat their stories or experience for the 100th times. In fact, some of their believes are old-wives tales which if they Google it, they would know it is false. Many times, my children would also express their displeasure towards my parent's nagging or stories.
Lately, I ask my children to be patient with them and also remind myself to do the same. My parents are both retired and have limited social circle. They are only limited by their earlier life experience. Besides watching their phone and doing some simple housework, they have little social connection. My kids and my presences are probably their highlights for the day.
I used to take time to listen to my children's school stories. Most of their stories are the same. If I can be patient with my kids, why I cannot be patient with my parents? My parents too would have listened to my same old school stories when I was growing up.
What my parents shared with me is not what they want me to know, but to create a connection with myself and the rest of the family. Therefore, what they shared is not important. It is the connection that matters. Be grateful that they still have the chance to tell you the same story for the 101th time. Those days are numbered.