Growing Older Together

Conclusion of ADAPT TO YOUR CHILDREN'S INDEPENDENCE

After a couple's two daughters married and moved away, the couple felt a void in their lives.  At first, the husband resented his sons-in-law.  But as he reflected on the principle of headship, he realized that his daughters' husband were now responsible for the perspective households. Therefore, when his daughters requested advice, he asked them what their husbands thought, and then he made sure to be as supportive as possible. He sons-in-law now view him as a friend and welcome his counsel.

What if newlyweds, while not doing anything unscriptural, fail to do what the parents think is best?  "We always help them to see Jehovah's point of view," explain one couple who have married children, "but if we do not agree with the decision of theirs, we accept it and give them our support and encouragement."

In certain Asian lands, some mothers  find it particularly difficult to accept their son's independence. However, if they respect Christian order and headship, the find that friction with their daughters-in-law is minimized.  One Christian  woman finds that departure of her sons from the family home has been a "source of ever-increasing gratitude."  She is thrilled to see their ability to manage their new households. In turn, this has meant a lightening of the physical and mental load that she and her husband have to bear as they get older. 

Next time: Growing Older Together/REINVIGORATING YOUR MARRIAGE BOND

From the book: The Secret of FAMILY HAPPINESS