Prompt: Write a 500 word essay identifying and explaining the values you feel are necessary for successful family relationships. Clearly explain each value in detail with specific examples and justification for your choice.
Family. A word often meant to describe those you live and grew up with, but to me it means those I love and depend on. All throughout time, members of families bicker and fight with one another when they should be strengthening their relationships. This task is not, by any means, considered an easy one. one must obtain certain attributes in order to have a pleasant relationship with family members, the most important being: observation, a listening ear, ability to develop trust, and unconditional love.
"Why are these important?" You might ask. In order to explain, we must start from the beginning.
Observation. Being able to notice and see things around you for what they truly are. As family members you might share the same DNA, but you don't have the same mind. When people are hurt or angry they react in different ways; some shut down, some lash out, some are calm and rational. Family members should be observant in knowing when something is wrong. For example, through my teenage years, when I would get upset I would usually snap at or say a snide remark to one of my siblings then head off to be alone. My mother would notice this and realize I probably needed someone to talk to; she had the attribute of observation down to a science.
After observing that something is bothering a family member we must do as my mom did and have a listening ear. We need to be there for our family. Sometimes all a person needs is to be heard. Along with this, we need to realize that they might not need us to talk at all. Therefore, we need to be careful on not giving too much advice; unless they ask for it, of course.
After showing that we notice others feelings and are someone to confide in, they usually find that we are worthy of their trust. once given that trust we must do everything, in our power, to keep it. Trust is one of the toughest things do get back once it is lost. In order to keep trust we must avoid dishonesty and hypocrisy. When we say that we will do something, we should follow through. Show others that we care enough to keep our promises.
And lastly there is unconditional love. Having unconditional love for someone is loving them no matter what they do to hurt themselves, you, or others. This value is essential in family relationships and goes along with all the other values mentioned thus far. If a child decides to go wayward and live a life we might not agree with, their trust in our love might be the only thing that brings them back. We must have that undying love, that selfless love.
All of these attributes combined will ensure that we have successful relationships with our family members, which relationships are of the most important in our lives.
-McKae Bre'a
