Grandparents are the closest thing to angels we will ever experience in our lifetime. I feel like grandparents, and older people in general, just don't get the credit they deserve. So next time you think they're just some old people that happened to give birth to your parents, remember these things:

1. They spoil the crap out of you.

Whether it be the stuffed animal you really liked in the store that one time you went shopping with them, or slipping you the occasional twenty dollar bill, or just showering you with compliments, they know what you want and how to give it to you.

2. They always have food, which means you do too.

I don't think I ever remember leaving my nana and granddaddy's house hungry, or really even anything less than stuffed. Do you?

3. They have the best stories.

You may get tired of the "back when I was a boy" stories that somehow always involved walking uphill to school both ways, but I love them. Think about it, your grandparents grew up in a completely different world than we did. I would much rather hear their stories than read them out of a history book.

4. They keep your secrets.

Did you fail your calculus test? Having friend problems? Pretty much anything you don't want to tell your parents, you can tell them. They'll give advice, and let it go. No judgement, no parent-telling.

5. They take your side.

Grandparents are like the peace keepers of the family. They are able to make you feel like you're being heard, while also reasoning with your parents and calming all of you down.

6. They say the darndest things.

Especially if you live in the south. These things can range from the most intelligent pieces of advice to absolute nonsense, and sometimes they're even one and the same.

7. They are fascinated by technology.

If you have younger grandparents, then probably not as much. But I'm pretty sure my Granddaddy thinks Google is the coolest thing ever.

8. They have dirt on your parents.

There just isn't much that beats embarrassing stories about your parents when they were your age, especially when you can use them in your favor.

9. They are always proud of you.

Hearing older people talk about their grandkids is the cutest thing ever. "So your grandkid found the cure for cancer? Well that's great and all but my little Cindy can eat a whole pizza by herself."

10. There is nothing like the love they have for you.

There is something so special about the love that they have for you. It can't be explained, but it doesn't need to. Cherish it while you can, they wont be here forever.

This article is dedicated to my late Memaw (Garnet Jernigan), my late Nana (Marge Shearron), and my Granddaddy (Ben Shearron). I love you all.