Today's Kindness #175: September 26, 2022
👨👩👧👦It's Family Time!👩👩👧👦
National Family Day, celebrated on September 26, puts the spotlight on the people that make our lives meaningful. Families come in many forms and sizes under different circumstances, but they all share unconditional love and support for those growing up on the same family tree. From nuclear family units to extended clans, families can drive us crazy and make life worth living. Take some time today to appreciate the special folks in your life - give them a call, take them out to lunch, or send them a note to let them know you're thinking of them!
The word 'family' is not limited to a nuclear one; anyone with whom a meaningful bond develops becomes a family. Friends, pets, and neighbors, all fall under the term family.
Family game nights, arguing over petty things, inside jokes, heading out to favorite restaurants and parks, watching home videos or movies, and more, are the traditions for the day. Whatever it is that only you and your family share as a tradition. The important thing is to really cherish each other.
Many fictional characters have served as a family to us as well. Characters like Harry Potter, who many of us have grown up with, or Ted Mosby searching for the love of his life in "How I Met Your Mother" have helped us through tough times and are almost like family. The estranged or those without family find solace in these characters and cherish them.
1. Plan an outing
- Whether it's a day at the beach, a picnic, or a movie, an outing with your family is a surefire way to enjoy some quality time. Pick an accessible activity everyone can enjoy and share a day of reconnecting.
2. Pick up your phone
- Not to worry if you and your family are not in the same state or country - modern technology makes it easy to connect! Call each other or use a video chatting app to check in with distant relatives.
3. Plan a game day
- Games are a super fun way to bond with family. Whether your family is into board games, puzzles, card games, or sports, a little healthy competition will energize your family time. Plus, the winner has bragging rights - until the next game day.
"I was blessed to have family members who encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Whether it is your parents, your uncles or your aunts, or even the neighbor down the road, it's important that kids have someone who encourages them to chase their rainbow."
~ Dolly Parton