The participants postured around the table, poised to present their arguments. Each anxiously awaited their opportunity to have the floor, to demonstrate their claim to the prize. But this was not an economic summit, a political debate, or a treaty negotiation. This was dessert at the local restaurant, where a group of grandparents moved from conversation to competition as they discussed the exploits, endeavors, and successes of their grandchildren.

“My grandson just got a scholarship to his first-choice college.”

“My granddaughter is the captain of her cheerleading squad, and she’s just a junior.”