I received a letter from Grandpa shortly after my graduation in 1987. Luckily he saved his draft of the letter. Grandma found it after he passed in a box of keepsakes. Grandma said in her letter, "you may have kept the original that he sent to you, but in case you haven't, I thought you want to have this one, I love you, Grandma Margie".
It read as follows...
"Dear Charlie:
Quite some time ago I received a most wonderful letter from you. That letter was one of the most gratifying letters I have ever received. Charlie, I sincerely appreciated your thoughts about me that you express in your letter.
May I express some thoughts about you and some suggestions for you that may help you in your life? Charlie, you possess a wonderful personality. You have a ____ (word illegible) personality. It shines from your face. It will win for you many friends in life. your friendliness to all people is a trait that few of us possess. Your quick wit and fast retorts will be an asset throughout your life. You should find success in whatever field you decided to follow.
I do have a few suggestions for you to follow down the road ahead. Always stay close to your mother and father. Let them help you as you go through life. I suggest that you follow my father's only religions, "Do unto others that which you would have them do unto you". Be careful in forming your friends. Be sure they are honest, faithful and true. Lookout for those who would lead you into unlawful acts. Do not let temptation lure you into the use of any drugs. Make a decision to be and honest law abiding citizen.
Follow these suggestions along with finding the right mate will assure you a happy and productive life. Charlie, I am looking forward to many pleasant experiences that I will have with you as we both progress through life. It will be a pleasure to watch you as you progress through a successful and happy life.
Your sincere Grandfather,
Chas E. Ward"