In a world of turmoil and uncertainty, it is more important than ever to make our families the center of our lives and the top of our priorities. We need to make our homes a place of refuge from the storm, which is increasing in intensity all about us. Even if the smallest openings are left unattended, negative influences can penetrate the very walls of our homes
Each of us is in a different family situation. Some families have a mother and father with children at home. Some couples no longer have children at home. Many are single, and some are single parents. Others are widows or widowers living alone. No matter what our family looks like, each of us can work to strengthen our own families or help in strengthening others.
We can start strengthening our families by bridging the distance. I grew up in a home that was filled with love, laughter and lots noise. Family dinners last for hours as we discussed our days, listened to jokes or whatever was bothering each other. As each of us went our separate ways, we have been able to maintain close ties with each other. We sent cards for no reason, other than to say, "I thought about you today". We meet at least once a month, usually at mom and dad's house, to enjoy each others company. We make sure that everyone in family knows that they are important and loved. We let each other know that they are appreciated.
Are you proud of your family? Another indicator of a strong family is that members are proud to belong to the family. They are committed to each other and the family as a unit. Family members think of each other as friends with whom they can talk and have fun. They enjoy each other as individuals and like being together. They recognize that functioning together as a family is not always easy — there is conflict, things are not perfect — but they work at making family life more enjoyable and satisfying.
Strong families do not just happen. They are built over time from many little parts. Most of these are simple everyday occurrences, things we share with one another within our families.
What a nice post! So often we treat those outside of our family with more respect that those in our own home. It should not be that way.
ReplyDeleteI know that strong families take time to develop, but they are oh, so important. You are SO right that it takes many little parts.
ReplyDeletenice post thanks for sharing loves...soraya
ReplyDeleteNice post...thank you for so much for sharing...blessings...soraya
ReplyDeleteJust checking back for any new posts.
ReplyDeleteI’ve been following and enjoying your blog for a while now and would like to invite you to visit and perhaps follow me back. Sorry I took so long for the invitation.
Compared to what you described during family dinners, my family can stand some improvement. When we do all manage to eat together, at least one of the kids has to whine about something. :) However, we all love each other dearly.
ReplyDeleteI love these thoughts about family and how important family is, regardless of the form the family takes. Yes, I am very proud of my family and I especially appreciate the relationships my three grown kids have with each other.
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