“STRONG FAMILIES”

     Families in this new century fight very hard to survive the pressures of everyday life.  With new unexpected and random situations, most families find it very difficult not to be affected, not to be pulled in by the whirlpool of political, religious, social and world struggles. One may think that with all the advances in technology, life should be better: more relaxed, less stressful…and perhaps it is for the elite, the ones that have better opportunities, better schools, and better toys.  This is not the case for most of the families who are fighting very hard to survive today’s economic challenges and the restructuring of the almost bankrupt state in which they live in. This is the bad news.

     The good news is that families are stronger when they realize that they are the ones responsible for their own change, and that they depend in each other to grow from this experience by sacrificing some ways of life. Most of the families were so spoiled by the mirage of riches credit cards gave them, their pantries were full with extra goodies, and their closets had designer clothes and extra shoes. The present day has given families the opportunity to select the essential groceries to cook their food fresh and healthier. Their junk food has been cut in half and their health is improving. Strong families enjoy a walk in the park or around the block. Strong families are giving more importance to education. Statistics show that more people are saving money.

     Families are stronger when they realize how lucky they are to live in The United States where freedom is a right, and when they open their hearts to help the less fortunate  around the world. People realize that material stuff is worthless if it is not shared with others.

     Now, more than ever, these changes happening in our present should be kept as a lesson for future generations. Mary Catherine Bateson once said: “The family is changing not disappearing. We have to broaden our understanding of it, look for the new metaphors.”

     We humans are capable to adapt and create the most amazing things.  Perhaps, when the global economy goes back to what seems normal, family will reclaim its rightful status as the most important part in our society; we can’t forget that while wealth buys stuff  the most important element in our lives is the love we have for our family, and that my friends is what makes us strong.