The Return of the Family
by Nikki Willhite
www.allthingsfrugal.com
Once upon a time, families enjoyed being together!
The only millennium bug of significance this
year (to me, anyway) was the flu bug. I was very sick for a long period of time.
I tell you this not for sympathy, but to explain this article.
When I was finally able to at least sit up, I watched
television. It's been a long time since I've seen so much television. I found
myself watching a lot of VERY OLD shows.
Watching those shows really got me thinking about our families
and what has happened to them. Once upon a time, families enjoyed being
together. They would listen to the radio together, or gather Meals were special
occasions, with everyone helping. Families worked together, and they played
together.
When a child misbehaved, as punishment they were told, "go to
your room". What a joke that is now! Kids go into their rooms with their own
televisions, computers and play stations, and consider it torture if they have
to come out and be WITH the family.
What a shame! However, we don't have to be that way. We don't
follow the world when it comes to handling money.and we don't have to follow the
world when it comes to family togetherness.
I believe the key is to start early. Your children are not going
to start enjoying being with you when they are older if they have not done it
from a young age. Doing things with your children does not cost a lot of money.
It is both meaningful and FRUGAL!
I would suggest that every parent spend 30 minutes each night
with their children reading to them. Read a wide variety of material. If you are
religious, strengthen them with stories of faith.
When there is good family entertainment on the television, watch
it with them. Yes, I'm sure that there are other things you would find more
entertaining, and it is a sacrifice. Be willing to make it.
Help your children to learn to appreciate the simple pleasures
in life and they won't become the spoilt kids begging fon every new toy on the
market.
Let them learn to enjoy stores, fresh cookies hot from the oven,
and sitting on dad's lap while he tells them a story. Pull together as a family,
and your children will be more respectful to your needs. They will turn off
lights, brush their teeth to avoid cavities, take it easier on their clothes,
accept hand me downs more readily, etc. I know that it is another challenge to
take the "road not taken" by most people.......but how great the rewards!
Enjoy your children while they are with you. It doesn't last!