One of the things I miss the most about losing my parents and grandparents is the wisdom lost with them. They had life experience. There wasn't much they (collectively) hadn't seen, dealt with, or done. When I was struggling, they always knew what to say. I knew they would steer me in the right direction.
I remember thinking that I wish God would speak to me. I would pray and the conversations always seemed so one-sided. I desired His wisdom and guidance, but I didn't hear from Him... until the Holy Spirit revealed to me that I had a book filled with His messages to me.
I can't pick up the phone and call my parents. I can't sit down on my grandparents' front porch and tap into all of their years of experience, but I have direct access to a Father who knows, understands, and reveals all things in His time. His wisdom is limitless and His answers are always right.