IS THERE A SECRET OF FAMILY HAPPINESS? CHAPTER ONE

THE family is the oldest institution on earth, and it plays a vital role in human society.  Throughout history, strong families have helped to make strong societies.  The family is the best arrangement for bringing up children to be mature adults.

A happy family is a haven of safety and security. Envision the ideal family for a moment. During their evening meal, caring parents will sit with their children an discuss the events of the day.    Children chatter excitedly as they tell their father and mother about what happened at school.  The relaxing time spent  together refreshes everyone for another day in the world outside. 

In  a happy family, a child knows that his father and mother will care for him when he gets sick, perhaps taking turns at his bedside through the night. He knows that  he can go to his mother or father with the problems of young life and get advice and support.  Yes, the child feels safe, no matter how trouble-filled the outside world may be.  (note:keep in mind, we are talking about a happy family the way it is supposed to be.)

When children grow up, they usually get married and have a family of their own.  "A person realizes how indebted he is to his parents when he has a child of his own," says an Oriental proverb.  With a deep sense of gratitude and love, the grown children try to make their own families happy, and they also care for their now aging  parents who delight in the company of their grandchildren.

Perhaps at this point you are thinking: 'Well, I love my family, but it is not like the one just described.  My spouse and I work different schedules and hardly see each other. We talk mostly about money problems.' Or do you say, 'My children and grandchildren live in another town, and I never get to see them'? Yes, for reasons often beyond the control of those involved, much family life is less than ideal. Still, some lead happy family lives.  How? Is there a secret of family happiness?  The answer is yes.  But before discussing what it is, we should answer and important question. 

Next time: WHAT IS A FAMILY? 

From the book: IS THERE A SECRET OF FAMILY HAPPINESS? 1996