family | Joseph Michael

Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Faith in a Greater Power and Ourselves

by Joe Van Deuren | Nov 23, 2023 | Parenting, Self-care, Virtues

A Celebration of Balanced Faith

As Thanksgiving approaches, we are reminded of the warmth of gathering with loved ones, savoring delicious meals, and expressing gratitude for the blessings in our lives. This cherished holiday is an occasion for feasting and an opportunity to reflect on one of life’s most profound virtues: faith.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, let’s explore the connection between this virtue and the celebration of gratitude, emphasizing the dual aspects of faith—in a greater power and in ourselves—supported by the virtues of humility and gratitude.

Thanksgiving is an ideal time to contemplate our faith in a greater power, however, we may define it—whether as Grace, the Universe, God, or the Source of Life. It is the belief that our existence has a purpose, a divine plan that unfolds with wisdom and love. Faith in a greater power reminds us that we are not alone in this vast and mysterious universe. It instills in us a deep trust that our lives are guided by a benevolent force, even when challenges arise.

Simultaneously, Thanksgiving encourages us to embrace faith in ourselves. It is the unwavering belief that we are unique, capable, and deserving of the blessings that life has to offer. We were created with love, imbued with potential, and destined for greatness. Faith in ourselves fuels our dreams, propels us forward, and empowers us to overcome doubt, fear, and hopelessness.

Supporting Virtues

- Humility: Humility is the virtue that keeps our faith in check, preventing it from becoming arrogant or dogmatic. It teaches us to acknowledge the mysteries of the universe and to be open to guidance and wisdom from the greater power we believe in. In the context of Thanksgiving, humility reminds us to approach the holiday with reverence, recognizing that the abundance we celebrate is a gift from the divine, and we are mere stewards of these blessings.
- Gratitude: Gratitude is the bridge between these two aspects of faith. It allows us to express appreciation for the divine guidance and love we receive from the greater power while also acknowledging the innate potential and blessings within ourselves. Gratitude opens our hearts to the miracles that unfold in our lives, both as gifts from a higher source and as manifestations of our own capabilities.

Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Balanced Faith:

Thanksgiving, at its core, is a celebration of balanced faith. It invites us to strike a harmonious equilibrium between faith in a greater power and faith in ourselves. This balance is beautifully exemplified in giving thanks for the abundance we enjoy while acknowledging our role in shaping our destinies.

As we gather around tables laden with delectable dishes and share heartfelt expressions of gratitude, we nurture our faith in the divine and ourselves. We become like sailboats on the vast ocean of life, with faith in the greater power, guiding us toward our purpose as the wind in our sails. Meanwhile, faith in ourselves becomes the sturdy hull of the boat, providing stability and direction.

Thanksgiving: A Time for Reflection and Renewal:

Thanksgiving provides us with a unique opportunity to reflect and renew our faith. It encourages us to embrace humility by recognizing that the blessings we enjoy are not solely of our own making. They are intertwined with the benevolence of a higher power, the love that created us, and the interplay of circumstances beyond our control.

Moreover, this holiday calls upon us to cultivate gratitude as a daily practice, not just a once-a-year event. By acknowledging the gifts of the greater power and the potential within ourselves, we can infuse our lives with a profound sense of purpose and empowerment.

As we come together in the spirit of Thanksgiving, let us remember that this holiday is more than just a feast; it is a celebration of faith. It is a reminder that, through humility and gratitude, we can harmonize our faith in a greater power and in ourselves. In this exquisite balance, we find strength, purpose, and the unwavering belief that miracles are always within reach.

As Thanksgiving approaches, I reflect on the incredible journey we have embarked on together. This special occasion offers the perfect opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the families who have supported my blogging endeavors, embracing the value of the Virtues and the Four C’s of Successful Families.

I invite you to sign up for our newsletter. It is a great way to get the Virtue of the Month and tips on relationships, parenting, and self-care. In addition, you’ll be the first to know about upcoming classes for successful families.

To sign up, visit the “Newsletter” section here on the website. Enter your email address, and you’ll receive our newsletter in your inbox on Wednesdays. I appreciate your interest in bringing out the best in your children and yourself. We look forward to keeping you informed through our newsletter!

Personal Reflections: Building a Respectful and Caring Environment in My Family

by Joe Van Deuren | Jul 7, 2023 | Parenting, Relationships

Personal Reflection Questions

Does every member of my family feel valued?
What does the soundtrack of my life sound like?
How can I strengthen my family’s relationships?

Family is the cornerstone of our lives, a haven where we find love, support, and belonging. As parents, we strive to create a nurturing environment where each family member feels respected, valued, and cared for. It takes conscious effort and a commitment to foster a positive atmosphere, but the rewards are immeasurable. In this blog post, I will share personal reflection questions and examples of how my family and I are building a respectful and caring environment for us all.

What does respect mean to us?

Respect serves as the foundation for healthy relationships within our family. We engage in open conversations to understand each other’s perspectives and feelings. By embracing empathy, active listening, and acceptance, we cultivate an environment that encourages everyone to express themselves without fear of judgment. We remind ourselves of the importance of treating each other with kindness, patience, and understanding.

Example: When conflicts arise, we encourage open dialogue rather than resorting to shouting or harsh words. We teach our children to express their emotions in a constructive manner, emphasizing the value of resolving conflicts through peaceful communication.

How do we encourage autonomy and individuality?

Respecting individuality is crucial for the growth and happiness of every family member. We create an environment that celebrates each person’s unique qualities, talents, and interests. We foster a sense of independence and self-worth by acknowledging and supporting individual goals.

Example: Our children have the freedom to pursue their passions, whether it’s art, sports, or music. We provide them with opportunities for exploration and encourage their curiosity. By doing so, we show respect for their individuality and teach them to respect others’ choices and interests.

How do we foster open communication?

Effective communication is vital for building trust and understanding within a family. We actively promote a safe and judgment-free space where every family member feels comfortable expressing themselves. We encourage sharing thoughts, concerns, and feelings, no matter how big or small.

Example: We have regular family meetings where everyone has an opportunity to speak up and be heard. We set aside dedicated time to discuss important matters, allowing each family member to contribute their ideas and perspectives. These conversations promote collaboration, problem-solving, and mutual respect.

How do we practice empathy and compassion?

Empathy and compassion form the pillars of a caring environment. By understanding and validating each other’s emotions, we nurture strong bonds and support one another during joyful and challenging times. We consciously demonstrate kindness and empathy in our daily interactions.

Example: When a family member is struggling, we lend a listening ear and offer support without judgment. We teach our children the importance of empathy by encouraging them to put themselves in others’ shoes and think about how their actions might impact others. Through small acts of kindness, we reinforce the value of compassion within our family.

Building a respectful and caring environment within a family is an ongoing journey that requires dedication, understanding, and love. By asking ourselves reflective questions and implementing practical strategies, we can create a space where every family member feels valued, heard, and supported. Let us embark on this journey together, building stronger and more loving relationships that will last a lifetime.

Use the Four C’s of Successful Families:

Clarity: Know what you value, what your vision and mission is for yourself and your family

Communicate: Express your values clearly and use virtues language to guide, acknowledge, correct and appreciate all in the family.

Consistency: Practice your virtues and values by making decisions and choices based on what you have clarified and communicated.

Community: Use your community of supporters who have similar values to fortify yourself and your family.

The Family Journal – A Journey of Memories, Creativity, and Connection

by Joe Van Deuren | Jun 12, 2023 | Parenting

Have you ever considered the power of writing as a family activity? Amidst all the adventures you embark on together, an incredible opportunity is waiting to be explored—creating a family journal.

Imagine a book dedicated to your family, a living document that evolves and grows each day. It’s not just a mere scrapbook but a captivating memoir, an enchanting wish list, and a lot of fun!

In this journal, every member of your family can freely express themselves, weaving a tapestry of thoughts, emotions, and dreams. It’s a treasure trove where memories transcend mere actions, capturing the essence of what each person honestly thought and felt.

Setting up your family journal is an effortless endeavor. Begin with a book that’s large enough for everyone to easily contribute. You might opt for unlined pages, allowing your youngest family members to unleash their creativity through drawings. Alternatively, explore the possibilities of a scrapbook or a binder, where you can arrange and organize your family’s experiences in any way that sparks joy.

As you embark on this enchanting journey, let the family journal become a cherished keepsake that will bind you closer. Every page turned, and every entry made will deepen your understanding of one another, leaving an indelible mark on your family’s story.

So, grab your pens, gather your loved ones, and unlock the immense joy of creating a family journal. Together, you will embark on an adventure of memories, creativity, and connection that will be treasured for generations.

Here are some suggestions for things to include in a family journal, keeping in mind that it should be a living document that evolves over time:

Everyday Moments

Encourage family members to capture and share everyday moments that are special or meaningful to them. These can be simple entries about a funny conversation, a shared meal, or a spontaneous adventure.

Example: “Today, we had an impromptu dance party in the living room. We laughed, twirled, and created amazing memories together. Even our pet dog joined in and added to the joy!”

Milestones and Achievements

Document important milestones, accomplishments, and milestones reached by each family member. This can include birthdays, graduations, promotions, or personal achievements such as learning to ride a bike or overcoming a fear.

Example: “Congratulations to Emma for winning the school spelling bee! We are so proud of her dedication and hard work. This achievement will be treasured in our family journal as a reminder of her determination.”

Family Traditions

Preserve and celebrate your family’s traditions and rituals. Write about special traditions like holiday celebrations, annual family vacations, or unique customs significant to your family. Tuck in a few photographs or other souvenirs to make this a memorable entry.

Example: “Our annual camping trip tradition began again this year. We spent three days exploring nature, roasting marshmallows, and sharing stories around the campfire. These moments strengthen our bond and create lasting memories.”

Gratitude and Appreciation

Encourage family members to express gratitude and appreciation for one another. This can involve writing thank-you notes, expressing love and appreciation for the unique qualities of each family member, or acknowledging acts of kindness within the family.

Example: “Today, Dad surprised us with a homemade dinner. We want to express our gratitude for his thoughtfulness and the delicious meal. We are grateful to have such a caring and talented chef in our family!”

Challenges and Reflections

Provide space for family members to share personal challenges and reflect on how they overcame them. This can foster resilience and growth within the family.

Example: “I faced a fear of public speaking. I delivered a presentation at school. Although I was nervous, the support and encouragement from my family helped me conquer my fears. This experience taught me the power of believing in myself.”

Dreams and Goals

Encourage family members to write about their dreams, aspirations, and personal goals. This can be an opportunity to support each other’s ambitions and foster a shared purpose.

Example: “Our family journal has a dedicated section called ‘Dream Big.’ Today, we added our individual goals for the upcoming year, such as learning a new instrument, volunteering as a family, and starting a garden. We can’t wait to support each other in achieving these dreams!”

Creative Expressions

Emphasize the fun aspect of the family journal by encouraging creative expression through drawings, collages, poems, or even short stories. Let family members explore their artistic side and make the journal visually appealing.

Example: “Today, Sarah drew a beautiful picture of our family picnic in the park. Her artwork captures the happiness and togetherness we felt that day. It’s amazing how her drawings bring the memories to life!”

Remember, the family journal should reflect your unique family dynamics, interests, and experiences. Encourage everyone to contribute and make it a fun and inclusive activity that brings the family closer together.