Praying for Lilianna and some answers

     I hope we don't take the time we spend with our granddaughters, Abi and Josie, for granted.  We see them at least once a week and we love it. Now, we're getting another chance to spend some extended time with our granddaughter, Lilianna. She's 17 months old. We are excited and guarded at the same time. Her parents tell us she is a 'wild child' and that she hits and bites as if that will scare us out of taking care of her. It only serves to set our resolve that she must spend more time with us.
    What does scare me is that it won't be enough time to set a permanent mark on her life. They live so far away from us that we only get to see her about once every six months. I worry that she won't get enough of the routine teaching and reinforcement necessary to blossom into the beautiful happy young girl I saw emerging the last time she spent a couple weeks with us. Her mom and dad are struggling to find the life they want and we see that struggle taking it's toll. I'm scared for Lilianna.
     People used to tell us that you shouldn't have children until you can afford it.  I don't think that's it. It isn't about the money, it's about balance. You have to be able to prioritize. Once you have children, the rest of life's choices, no matter how mundane, should be decided by asking, 'how does it affect our child(ren)? Is this the best choice for us as a family?' It's the only way to respect, preserve and protect the delicate balance of family.
     Lilianna's parents are doing the best they can to give her what she needs but even they will tell you they don't understand what it is. I know it's selfish and would create it's own set of challenges, but on some level I keep hoping they recognize it's more work than they can manage and will ask us to take care of her. In the meantime, I'll keep that door open, continue to provide as much moral support as they'll accept, and keep praying.