Family Time
from PositiveChristianity.net
Family time can be stretched so thin that it almost disappears from our lives. Here's a little humor that makes the point — a moment from a “Blondie” cartoon:
Dagwood says, “You’ve been working so hard lately, I feel like I haven’t seen you.”
Blondie replies, “Well, I’m home tonight. It’s just you and me.”
They sit down to watch TV. Dagwood groans, “This show is awful.”
Blondie answers, “I finished my crossword. Want to call it a night?”
As they head up the stairs, Dagwood says, “I left the light on for the kids.”
Blondie nods, “Then let’s head on up.”
In bed, Dagwood reads, “This is a good book, but my eyes are tired.”
Blondie adds, “I know what you mean. I’m sleepy too.”
Dagwood sighs, “I guess this wasn’t anything special, was it?”
Blondie smiles and says, “Yes, it was. We were together.”
Togetherness doesn’t need to be grand to be meaningful.
Clovis Chappell, a preacher from a century ago, told a story about two paddleboats leaving Memphis, heading to New Orleans. As they traveled side-by-side, one crew teased the other about being too slow. Words turned to rivalry, and a race began.
One boat fell behind — it didn’t have enough fuel for the extra speed. So a young sailor began tossing some of their cargo into the furnace. The supplies burned just like coal. The boat caught up and won the race… but they arrived with nothing. All the cargo — the very reason for the trip — had been burned in pursuit of winning.
We are entrusted with “cargo” too — our children, spouses, friendships, and family. We’re meant to help each other reach our destinations. But when the busyness and pressure of life take over, people often get left behind.
What are we sacrificing in order to stay ahead? How many moments — or relationships — are burned up in the fire of competition, ambition, or distraction?
One woman put it this way, with a touch of humor: "Home is where part of the family waits until the others come back with the car."
According to a study of over 500 family counselors, the most successful families share common traits. They are loving, they communicate and listen to one another, and they offer consistent support and affirmation. They show mutual respect and build trust. They spend time together, share responsibilities, and teach values like right and wrong. They also keep family traditions, respect personal privacy, and often share a spiritual or religious foundation.
Take time to reflect on these qualities. Where does your family thrive? And where might you grow together?
Family isn’t built in big, perfect moments — it’s built in small, consistent ones.
Put on love. Make time. And carry your cargo well.
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POSITIVE DAILY PRAYER:
I pray that my family is covered by a Divine umbrella of harmony.
I pray that everyone that enters our home feels love.
I pray that we cherish our times together.
I pray that each makes the others feel special and valued.
I pray this is a moment where we realize the unique opportunity in the love of today.
Amen
POSITIVE DAILY AFFIRMATION:
Loving kindness comforts me and those around me.
POSITIVE DAILY QUOTE:
"You don't choose your family. They are a gift to you, as you are to them." - Desmond Tutu