02 Jul Glorious Family

Family is an amazing thing.

Family teaches us, guides us and supports us.

Do we fully accept or appreciate this?

It took me about 40 years for it to really sink in; however, I am extremely grateful that it did.

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It all started for me when I was 7 years old.

My mother and father asked me who I would like to live with, after consulting a counselor and it was decided that I was to live with my father.

Dad and I lived together for many years, while he took the brunt of responsibility, raising me for over 10 years.

Thank you Dad for your patience, perseverance and kindness to me throughout my childhood and adulthood.

Mom also played a critical role throughout my life, when I was 3 years old, cared for me for several years in our little townhouse in Kanata, Ontario.

Mom taught me the importance of living joyfully, healthily and truthfully.

Over 30 years that ensued, she introduced me to spirituality, while living a more meaningful life.

We often discuss our lives, including the evolution and improvements we have made.

We’re still very close today.

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Before I could realize the importance of my family, the world taught me to: “fend for myself”, “it’s a me society”, “look out for number one”, which I totally believed.

Going out into the world alone, to find a job, friends and housing, seemed impossible at times, while exploring the massive mysterious world.

Family meetings, trips, support and love were certainly major catalysts which assisted my breakthroughs in these areas.

It’s certainly true, family can be tough at times, but I know we all love each other and can overcome anything, if we try harder to be patient.

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Since I’ve been married, challenges have tested me on both my side of the family as well as with my in-laws.

Being enormously patient and kind to others, especially when being pressured to change, has been one of my greatest achievements in life.

This powerful endurance is well worth the effort.

It has been my saving grace in the family.

This simple practice of tolerance and understanding literally helped, not only preserve, but strengthen many relationships, that would have otherwise been ruined, including my marriage, parents, in-laws and friendships.

I encourage anyone with family challenges to find the strength to endure and experience the blessings the future will bring.