talk the leg off a chair
I love to talk. Always have. Always will. I was told when I was younger, I could talk the leg off a chair. There is nothing more fun to me than sitting with someone and having a great discussion. There is something so healthy listening to someone speak authentically and open with their successes and struggles. It is important in families to speak openly and purposefully make opportunities to know each other.
Just this week, I was talking to a teenager about family communication. Many problems would be prevented in families if communication was improved. Even in counseling, a student may be the identified client, but we work as a family to strengthen communication and the relationships involved. It involves everyone and no problem is limited to just one person. Below are some questions that can be asked in your family to assist in knowing each other better and staying in touch despite school, church, and extracurricular activities.
What is the best thing that happened today?
What is the worst thing that happened today?
What makes you laugh?
What makes you upset?
What do you want to be when you grow up?
What do you want from me as a parent?
How can I help you achieve your goals?
What is your greatest accomplishment?
Who are your best friends?
What are you afraid of?
What do you love about our family?
What could we improve as a family?
What is your most valuable possession (or toy)?
Who is your hero?
What is your favorite song?
What is something you would like to learn how to do?
What is something you are thankful for?
If you could change the world, how would you choose to do it?
What is the most difficult thing you have ever had to do?
What is the most amazing thing about being you?
Let me say, teenagers may think these questions are weird, especially if your family does not talk about these much. Don’t let it get weird. Laugh with them and let them know you love them and want to encourage them as they grow. These can be altered depending on your family and their ages. I hope these encourage you to be conscious to make the time and effort to make the most of every opportunity and minister to your family. Moms and Dads, you are the greatest authority and have the greatest impression on your childrens’ lives, even when it does not seem like it. They listen to what you say more than anyone else. God has entrusted you with important gifts. He has given you a great privilege to have the opportunity to disciple your children. When we have it all together days and when we cannot seem to find anything and eat scraps for supper days, praise the Lord for life. Rough days and great days, let us make the most of each day. Love you friends!
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6
Love,
Charis
