Relationships Sundays
Immediate Family Relations
How to Strengthen Family Relationships
If there's one thing in life we don't get to choose - it's family. For better or worse, they're the people we eat with, live with, grow with, and exist alongside for the better part of our childhoods. Even as adults, while we may not physically spend time side by side, family remains a key part of our lives.
But existing together doesn't mean we get along, or even enjoy each other's company. In fact, family relationships should never be passively assumed or relied on. They must be active, continual, and consistently strengthened.
Strengthening family relationships starts by acknowledging that we cannot take each other for granted. Tempting as it may be, it's simply detrimental to just assume a family member's presence or role in your life. As much as you can, look around you and take note of the gifts you've been given and the opportunities you have to make the most of the family around you.
Additionally, remain kind to each other. As family, you know each other's faults better than almost anyone - but you also know each other's strengths. Celebrate them. Don't leave things left unsaid, and take every opportunity you can to speak them to each other.
Finally, spend quality time together. Not just being in the same house, or at what is technically the same location - spend quality time talking, connecting, and sharing together a life that you live together.
You can't choose your family, but you get the choice to love them - and doing it well will give you returns like nothing else in life will.