underlying inspiration for my essay

I thought about this before I went to Florida, as I was thinking about what the hell to write for Americorps.
Then I had to leave....and my brain was FLOODED with memories and values and all the things Papa believed in. Everything he encouraged.
--------

I truly believe that even a small act of service, leadership, kindness, or generosity can have a powerful, lasting impact. Growing up, my grandparents made my brother and I write letters to almost everyone we knew— for special occasions, thank you notes,  or no reason at all. Writing these letters required discipline, patience, and the willingness and ability to communicate with others. As a 6 year old, this wasn’t my favorite after-school activity, but I did it and tried to see the value in it...or at least get through a letter with legible hand-writing. 

It wasn’t until older that I realized its significance. However small, this gesture opened up the possibility for change through communication and reaching out to others. Even as a small child, I could tell how genuinely thankful these people were to receive my silly questions and stories when they wrote back.

I still have some of them.

--------------

If I ever have children, I would make sure they knew me. Goals, beliefs, all of it. I would do the same for my grandchildren. This is my biggest regret--that I didn't try harder to get to know my grandparents as PEOPLE. I know he had an interesting and amazing life........but I didn't ask enough questions.