Grandpa,
You say some really stupid things in your column. Maybe you should get your nose out of the Bible, the Koran, and other such fairy tales and into a dictionary of the English language. You made an asinine statement to the fellow who wrote in about the parades being held at the fairgrounds. (See The Voice, January 30, 2020). You said he has an interesting point that needs to be “ignored further.” The proper term is “explored further”. I guess even your editors are idiots because nobody caught that gaff.
Grandpa says: Thank you for your letter. Although I am sorry you missed the point of my subtle, but intentional badinage, I thank you for helping me get my tongue out of my cheek. My nose, however, is quite comfortable in various scriptures.
Grandpa,
My son is dating a divorcee several years his senior. She has (some) children. I am sure this gold digger is just out for my money. I have a very good income and have saved for many years. My son is no prize to look at and he knows it. She, too, could use a good make-over in the looks department. I am afraid he is seeing her for the (physical relationship) and she is using her body to win over his inheritance from me. I am torn between telling her that she can hit the road or offering her a job where I work so I can keep an eye on her. I do not want them to be a couple. Period.
Grandpa says: So, which of the two do you dislike more, your son or his lady friend? You give me no information about how they get along, how he interacts with her children, if he has his own place, or any other information about that relationship. All you mention is their physical looks and your suspicions. Sounds to me like it is high time you realize that you have no business in their lives. Step back and let them be themselves. I feel sad for the couple. It is hard enough for a relationship to blossom fruitfully without a meddling third wheel. Back off, allow them to live their lives and, if asked for advice, refer them to me; I have no ax to grind.
Grandpa,
When Joseph was Prime Minister of Egypt, I understand that honey was a plentiful commodity. So why would Jacob send honey to Joseph as a gift when he sent the sons to buy food? Genesis 43.
Grandpa says: The “honey” that Jacob sent was probably grape honey, meaning syrup or jelly. The Hebrew word debash, meant any viscid concentrate of a natural sweet. It could be that of the nectar of flowers that is turned into what we call honey, or it could be a man-made substance from various fruit juices. Look at Genesis 43:11. “…take of the best fruits in the land…”. On such a journey, fresh fruits would not survive the long trip. As a syrup or jelly, the best fruits of the land would be preserved and be a welcomed gift.
Got something stuck in your craw? Ask Grandpa. Address your letters to Ask Grandpa c/o The Voice, PO Box 123,
Aurora, IL 60507 or send an E-mail to askgrandpa@thevoice.us.