What makes us or our family happy?
I N THESE critical times when marriage and family are under attack, is it possible to be happy? Even though this is not a complete happiness manual, it highlights its practical suggestions. Hopefully, if applied properly, this can contribute to the most sought after happiness.
What have I done today to show love and respect to my family? Can they sense that I care for them? Please do not expect perfection from them and choose to focus on their good qualities.
Our family members have different opinions so we need to learn to be united in our thoughts and feelings. Unity is essential when making decisions. Share your feelings with your family, not just information or opinions.
For love to flourish, loyalty and trust are important. Make it obvious to others that you are completely committed to your mate and your family. And be resolved to avoid any romantic attachment to a person other than your mate. Consider your mate’s feelings and immediately end any relationship that would make your mate uncomfortable. Be honest with yourself and identify your weaknesses. Do not be embarrassed and discouraged to ask for help.
Set an appropriate time to discuss problem. When it is your turn to listen, resist the urge to interrupt. You will get your turn to speak. Even when strong emotions are involved, resist the urge to fight. A calm answer can keep what should be a simple discussion from escalating into a battle.
Even if you disagree, remain gracious, never forgetting to show respect and love to oneself and one’s family. If we think, feel, act that our family members are our teammates rather than our opponents, we will not be quick to take offense.
Keep listening with an open mind even if what you are hearing displeases you. Listen for the message behind the words. Notice body language and tone of voice.
Agreeing on a good solution is not enough. You need to follow through on what has been decided. This may involve effort on every one, but it is worth it.
The last but not the least, we all need money to provide our family members with the things we need. It may be difficult to talk about money but we have to decide how much we can afford to spend and to save. Most of all, we are contented with what we can have and never neglect our personal relationship with God by setting aside time everyday to pray and read the Bible.*