New book reflects idea of legacy inspired by becoming a grandfather


WESTLAND, MICH. Ð June 12, 2006. In the newly released book, Call Me Grandpa: A Man's Wish for His Grandchildren, we learn that our wish for "pain-free" lives for children and grandchildren may be neither blessing nor possibility. Yet we (and they) are never alone in our journey, whatever its course, and if we believe we are entitled to always having it easy, we may be missing the true gifts of life and living.

"We must see patience as part of natural law and accept that all comes at the right time and the right place," intones the wise and loving Creator/narrator at the heart of the book's message.

The story unfolds as an older man receives a phone call from his own child announcing a first pregnancy. After the call, overcome by the emotions of his pending new role and title of "Grandpa," he slips on his coat and heads into a brisk, starry night with his St. Bernard Casey at his side. In the woods, he engages in a surprising "conversation."

The fictional book was inspired by real-life sense of wonder. Author Jerry Pociask says, "When I was told I was going to become a grandfather I reflected on my own life and wondered what I had done right and what I had done wrong. Like most, I saw both yet also saw the futility of regret. I would hope that anyone who reads this would see the simple values outlined and consider adopting them to their own lives, reframing their concept of 'legacy' for future generations."

Evocatively illustrated by Marsha Grill, each page captures the imaginations of all who have fond memories of their grandfathers. One reader, after finishing the book, wrote, "...what a wonderful gift. I started to question whether a book on becoming a grandpa would be an appropriate gift for a dying man but after I read it- WOW. It couldn't be more perfect, I can't wait to give it to him. It is absolutely beautiful and suits their situation so well. I love how the universe works that way...I know it will be a book his family will cherish forever."

Call Me Grandpa is about living with a full and grateful heart, mindful of the complexities of life while understanding that abiding faith and love can smooth--and simplify--the traveling.

Pociask, who has a B.S. in business administration from Central Michigan University and an A.D. in aviation from Northwestern Michigan College, has held a variety of corporate and non-profit managerial roles. But it is in helping others discern their own truths, apply their talents and achieve their innate potential that he finds his passion. His belief that everyone possesses a "champion's heart" has led him to a career in teaching, training, life coaching and now, writing.

For more information or to order copies of the book call Life Management, LLC at 734-451-8203 or email jwpoc@aol.com

Originally published June 12, 2006