Steps to
Unify Your Family
By GEORGIA SMITH-LYLE , MA , LPC-S
In today ’ s world , we are facing so many changes ! There are changes in the way children are educated , job related changes for a mom or dad , changes in the way we approach doctor visits , changes in our economic and political system , and changes how we gather together just to name a few . I have had the opportunity to counsel families for approximately twenty years now . This past year , I have observed and counseled families that have had an “ extreme ” shift in the way they function together inside and outside the home . This is not new “ news ” to any of us reading this article . The question I ’ ve been asking myself for these families , adolescents , children and couples is “ how can I help them to stay connected , feeling safe and secure in their home , continuing to experience a depth of unity that encourages emotional growth and optimum personal development and fulfillment .” There is a need to unify the family in such a way that brings the best out of each member of the family . I would like to suggest the following concepts and ideas . They are not new concepts … there are the same ones that have existed since man was created , however we are finding the need to implement these concepts more than we have ever before .
CONCEPT NO . 1
When a family works together as a “ team ” there is unity . When there are changes in the family and outside the family that cannot be controlled , fear , depression and anxiety can occur . A family that works together as a team will find time for each other to communicate with each other openly , respectfully and willingly . When children feel important and have a place other than their friends to speak to , they feel safe and understood . Parents who have developed the team concept that brings unity from the beginning ( which starts with relationship between mom and dad ) are already ahead of the game of family unity . If you have not done as much as you would like or need more help , it is not too late to begin . Start with family time together . Start with open conversations on what everyone is thinking and feeling about the world of their own family and the world outside the home .
18 • MARCH / APRIL 2021