Hailed as “Elder Grace to Youthful Face”, grandmother Celia Ford, daughter Theresa Allen, and granddaughter Pamela Simonson are different and unique. Their compelling theme has been seen as a stroke of genius and often revolutionary, with fans admitting they wish their own family had thought to do something like the Pearls of Wisdom from Three Generations project.
“We suggest families start out with a mission they can all enjoy like art or literature”, stated the elder Ford. The retired Registered Nurse referenced the way families did not have the Internet and television as distractions when she was growing up during the 30’s.
“We were forced to sit around and listen to radio, but then we also had family discussions, did art projects, or read. When children work on projects with their parents or grandparents, their self-esteem increases. They feel more confident and assured of themselves”, she continued.
The native New Yorker’s projects are seen as examples to help bridge generation gaps in families and help raise successful children. Included is their award-winning collection of inspirational family sayings, famous quotes, and prayers, Pearls of Wisdom From Three Generations (Thelemaque Publishing), as well as a weekly advice column, Ask Pearls of Wisdom. As a result, the trio is now also sought after as keynote speakers throughout the eastern seaboard and spread their words of encouragement to thousands. What started out as a small family project has snowballed into a cottage industry including; note and greeting cards, calendars, journals, prayer books, and an upcoming Bible.
“Generations from families see us as examples and want to do the same or similar thing, said Simonson.
“Mother’s Day is a good time to begin a family project because it is focused holiday on generations”, suggested the youngest of the trio, Simonson, a Washington National Opera soprano. She says to find a common interest with several family members from different generations and build on that theme, whether it is quilting, painting, or writing poetry. The three agree children need to see consistent elders in their lives to help gain confidence.
“Use your creative juices and collaborate on a central them, like purchasing real estate, starting a day care center or designing websites”, suggested Allen, a Maryland businesswoman who was also the impetus behind the Pearls of Wisdom from Three Generations family project.
“It’s a blessing to know our small family project has propelled other families into doing the same. We have helped many thousands of families find a purpose”, stated Ford. As the matriarch of the family, she was delighted to be able to be a part of a lasting legacy in her family and in so many others.
