The Power of Family

Have you ever heard the saying that family isn't chosen; they are God's gift to you? Well, today we will dive into family life and its importance to society and households. Families vary but having had the opportunity to observe many families over the years, I have noticed that they all share similarities and differences; in some way or the other, but each is special in its unique way.

This being said, let's first understand why families exist. According to the Oxford dictionary, the term family refers to "a group of one or more parent and their children living together as a unit". Moreover, it is important to note that God has intended for families to be the first point of contact to bring and instill strong values and togetherness in each household. Additionally, they are charged with the responsibility of shaping and developing our psychological and emotional perspectives which can be driven by demonstrating love, care, warmth, and respect. Hence the reason why families are considered key instruments in our lives and are God's gift to us. However, not every house is a home because, when we look around, we would notice some families (despite their good qualities) limit their potential to inspire each other and serve

their purpose. Therefore, they are considered to be dysfunctional. These families tend to fail at adequately addressing and mending brokenness, there are gaps within their bonds; they tend to avoid confrontations and to an extent, have lost respect and love for each other.

Consequently, when these factors surface, there is a dire need to implement and foster positive factors such as compassion, forgiveness, selflessness and so on, which will proactively attempt to reset and restore said bond. In essence, these bonds fuel our souls and hearts and give reassurance that we are not alone; that people are rooting for us, people defending us, people cheering in our corner, and people that genuinely care "regardless of" and "despite".

"It is important to note that God has intended for families to be the first point of contact to bring and instill strong values and togetherness in each household."

The bond of the family holds power that surpasses our knowledge. It can call out purpose, abilities, determination, and strength which we were otherwise, unable to see and activate for ourselves. Values such as love, unity, responsibility, respect, dedication, fear of the Lord, etc are values that each home should foster (amongst many other positive factors). These values allow youths to grow up in the right way and in doing so, they will learn to choose their friends wisely and make better decisions. They will become steady leaders and would positively impact society. Dreadfully, we have lost our way or maybe we have forgotten what a "whole" family feels like but pause for a moment and instead of prolonging problems, find solutions.

It only takes one leader/person to inflict and influence others to change. Time waits on no one and tomorrow is too late. There will always be an excuse or justification as to why things have drifted apart but no matter the reason; let love conquer. I am aware that it is easier said than done but take that step and move forward. There is ALWAYS a choice. Focus on the good things. You can bring change. You are already equipped.

This being said, I recall a personal memory where at the time, my dad - a single father with two girls, never had the opportunity to step foot into an educational facility. He had dreams. He had goals. However, due to being in a home with 12 other siblings, he had to work hard to assist his mom, while sacrificing his dreams. However, being deprived of basic opportunities did not stop him from making better decisions and instilling the values that he was taught.

He was a hard worker, he did everything he possibly could to send us to school and provide for us. He wanted us to get the opportunities that he did not and did his utmost best. I recall a birthday when we blew out a single candle from a double cupcake and while others would have been unappreciative of this; we were contented with whatever little way he celebrated us.

This is because our bond was strong. We trusted him and respected him. We knew he did his best and no matter how small or how big his gestures were, it was done with endless love. As such, the money spent was appreciated but didn't matter. What mattered was the measure of care and love that was given. He is extremely consistent in showing us love and togetherness, demonstrating how to stand as a unit and be there for each other (no matter how little). He showed us what family is and how powerful it can be. Nonetheless, I mentioned all this to draw upon the fact that he never gave up...he never settled for less and he was our family. He taught us to love God and so we have become the individuals were are today.

This is just one of the many instances where we can proudly say; family is everything.

"It only takes one leader/person to inflict and influence others to change"

Most people might be able to relate when I say that life is filled with hurt, trials, struggles, pressure, and emptiness but in these times, when you feel like you are all alone, is when you would realize that by being around your family; the

negative effects of life seem less (at least for a moment). Moreover, Family, no matter how big or small, can inflict positivity into a person's life. They can encourage and uplift your spirit and give you strength to keep moving, to keep pushing, to keep strong, and to do the right thing. There is strength in family and for those families that have drifted apart, I am here to tell you, that it's never too late. All it takes is an 'I love you, I care...I am here for you..." These words have power. All it takes is a simple call, a short visit, or even a warm smile or hug. Go to your family. Let your family know you care. Make a decision today to better your family relationship because together as a unit, you will accomplish more. Your child needs you, your siblings need you, your wife or husband needs you, your friend needs you, and most of all, your family needs you. You are all they have to keep going, as the world will continue to be full of violence and crime (which stems from ineffective families).

In conclusion, families need to make urgent changes. Let's take it one household at a time. Let's refuse to neglect our brothers and sisters. Let's show more love, give more care and conquer together. Let's break generational curses and get things functioning the way we ought to. Let's recreate a new normal and maintain it together.

#love #family #trust #support #godspurpose

"Teamwork makes the dream work". Go mend your family. Touch one heart at a time and as the saying goes; be the change you want to see and the world will be a better place. It starts with Family...it starts with YOU.

“Bear with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgive each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” – Colossians 3:13

Written By: Vicki Seebaran