"ON A SOAPBOX"

Dissension Among Family Members

     The family unit is important yet it is becoming less common place in our society.

      All too often I read about or hear of family members who argue, and end up not speaking to each other for days or months on end. It saddens me because precious time is lost, never to be regained, simply because one or both parties are too stubborn to offer or accept an apology.

       It is understandable when siblings argue, personalities differ, opinions differ, and there are bound to be quarrels. That is true from toddler years to adulthood. What isn’t as easily understandable is a parent taking one sibling’s side against the other, especially when the siblings are adults. Parents should listen, not take sides, hear what each has to say, and not allow one sibling to repeatedly criticize the other. Allowing such behavior inevitably leads to resentment.

       If anything, a parent might let their children know that their actions are hurting them, as well as the rest family. As adults they should be able to talk to each other and sort out their differences between themselves. Give them time to get over being angry. If you feel you have to do something, try to get the line of communication open between them.

       At some point in their lives those siblings are going to be the only remaining members of their family. It can be lonely without the love and support of a family.

       Life is too short, there are no “do over’s.”  Don’t waste precious time harboring resentment.  Make the best out of each day. Enjoy your family, don’t take life, or each other it for granted.

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