Families don't get strong by themselves. Family members must work to make the family strong. Like any relationships people have, marriages may be strengthened or weakened in many of the same ways. Each member has a role to bring strength to the family and not leave this matter to chance.
In their book, "Secrets of Strong Families," family researchers, Nick Stinnett and John DeFrain, suggest five ways you can play a more positive role in your family :
* Examine the way you spend your time. Strong families spend time together. They play, go on trips, or just enjoy being together. Schedule your time so that you can spend more time with your family.
* Make a list of things you like about family members ; then show it to them. Remember to complement other family members.
* Set aside time to communicate. You may want to plan a certain time for conversation each day, such as breakfast.
* Tape record memories of older family members. Find out where they were born and where they have lived. Ask what their lives were like.
* Seek outside help when needed. Even the strongest families sometimes need outside help. If your family is overhelmed by family problems, get help from a professional counselor.
Published by Teresita C. Tayanes on April 1, 2008 10:35 PM
