When my daughter Abrielle was 3, she proudly proclaimed, “My best friend is Grandpa Seymour!”

What made this unusual is that “Grandpa” Seymour wasn’t really Abrielle’s grandfather. He was the retired dad of our children’s preschool director who befriended the children as a volunteer by reading stories, playing with blocks, and singing songs.

The special relationship he formed with my daughter induced me years ago to talk about this lovely man’s gift of time and attention and the reward he enjoyed as a volunteer. He got to be with children who loved and adored him. What can be more wonderful than causing a child’s smile or earning a hug or a kiss goodbye?

Charles Dickens said, “Father Time is not always a hard parent…[he] often lays his hand lightly upon those who have used him well…leaving their hearts and spirits young and in full vigor. With such people, the grey head is but the impression of the old fellow’s hand in giving them his blessing, and every wrinkle but a notch in the quiet calendar of a well-spent life.”

When I told Abrielle that this kind and gentle man she knew as Grandpa Seymour had passed away, the sadness on her face and the tears in her eyes testified to the lasting impact he had made on her life.

In my book, that’s pretty good evidence of a well-spent life.

It’s a mark of wisdom and character to use life productively. The world needs more Grandpa Seymours. If you like children and have the time, call your local church, synagogue, Y, or school and ask if there’s a way to get involved.

If you’re lucky, your new best friend just might become an irrepressibly appreciative 3-year-old.

This is Michael Josephson reminding you that character counts.