Why We Do What We Do

I once visited a home where hanging on their wall near their kitchen table was a sign that read: "Family Rules." It then proceeded to list things that their family did such as "say thank you" or "take turns." Have you ever thought why your family does what they do? Does every family have a similar sign that lists every rule that they follow?

This made me think about what rules governed my family as I grew up. There were rules that were known and spoken about such as "finish the food that is put on your plate" or "say thank you." But there were others "rules" that we lived by that were unspoken. For instance everyone in our family had a specific spot at the dinner table that they sat in each night, and although we all knew our spot, it was never a spoken rule that we had a spot and only sat in that spot.

Other rules that my family lived by truly shaped who we were as a family unit and what we stood for. One in particular that stands out to me is that we were not allowed to fight with each other. Now that is not to say that we never fought with each other growing up which is most definitely not the case, but it was not tolerated that we call each other names or have an argument go unresolved. We were expected to get along, love, and respect one another. I think more than anything this family rule helped us gain a deeper sibling bond that has allowed me to be able to  honestly and truly say that my siblings are my closest friends.  Another rule that sticks out in my mind is that we always said goodnight to each other. This may seem simple and insignificant, but it was something that we did each night that again made us a more unified family. When one of us was heading to bed we would simply go to each member of the family and say goodnight and I love you. This was a way for us to close the day showing that we cared and taught us to use the words I love you freely with those that we love and care most about in our lives.

So whether it was "Eat your vegetables" or "goodnight, I love you," I am grateful for the family rules that created the family I know and love today.