The Love of Family
Nov 06 '00
I'd like to share with you a quote that I have always loved, and one I think of at least once a day. It helps me to remember how important family is, and how cherished they are to my life: "No matter what you've done for yourself or for humanity, if you can't look back on having given love and attention to your own family, what have you really accomplished?" --Lee Iacocca.
It's true. From the moment we're born, until the very day we leave this earth, we are hungry for attention and what life has to offer us. The very first thing we are blessed to see, when we're born, are the kind and loving (and extremely tired!) eyes of our parents. These are the people who will love us unconditionally and whole-heartedly all the days of our life.
One of my sweetest memories is when my dad and I would stack wood in the basement of our old house; it was something we had to do every year. It was tough work for a little girl, but what I mostly remember is that I was with my dad, and we talked about things; not earth-changing topics, but little, everyday things. Things that didn't really "matter" at the time, but they actually did matter. It brought us closer together as father and child, and as individuals. He understood things about me, and my feelings, that no one else could. And I, in return, realized that my dad was not only my "hero" but he was a human hero! The point being, we spent time working, yes; but we spent that time talking and being close to each other, and that is something I will cherish all of my life.
I have two brothers, one who is 3 years older than I, the other three years younger. Being that I am in the middle, I was kind of the "referee" between my brothers, something that really exasperated me when I was younger! But it, in the end, helped me to become a more understanding and fair person, because I was able to see both sides. After a little discussion with my brothers, we'd decide that it wasn't as important, so let's just get along and have fun! (until the next disagreement!)
As a 'thirty-something' grown-up now, I will tell you that I am reaching a point in my life where it's even more important to be close to my family. We are all separated by miles, so we don't get to see each other very often, maybe two times a year. And when I see my family, I notice little things... like those extra gray hairs on my oldest brother's head; those extra little laugh lines beside my youngest brother's eyes; the slower way my mother gets around. It brings everything into crystal clear, stark focus for me that I want to always cherish and protect the love of my family. I am thankful for them every day of my life; they are the sunshine of the smile that comes across my face when I think of them.
It's very important to let your family know how you feel, even if you aren't the "touchy-feely" type of person. Just a sincere look, a touch on the arm, or a "I'm so glad you're here!" will make them feel special and loved. And if they are blessed to look into your eyes as you say, "You know, I just love you!" then they are very lucky, and you are too.
Families were created with imperfections; but we as humans can love "imperfectly"... there isn't a right or wrong way. The important thing to always remember, is to love with your heart. And thank God every single day for those people who are just a phone call away, or a drive away, and know that for all time, they will be a part of us.
And, as my father did with me, spending good, quality time doing little things will help you remember with warmth the love that was given to you because they wanted to give it to you. I think that's my main comfort in life, that my dad really, truly wanted to spend time with me, and know me as not only his daughter, but as an individual. It doesn't matter if you're the busiest person on the planet; taking time with your children is of utmost importance. Remember, no one on their deathbed ever says, "I wish I'd spent more time at the office." Think about that.
Now go hug your family.
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Jev04again
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