This past weekend, my family gathered together for family pictures, and to celebrate a few of our family members birthdays. As we were at the park where the photos were taken, I sat quietly for a while and enjoyed the interaction of the photographer with my grandchildren, from the youngest age 4, to the oldest, just turned 19. My heart felt such joy as I watched each of their beautiful faces, smile, and giggle and laugh as they tried their best to pose how the photographer asked them. I looked around and saw the parents of these little ones, smiling and encouraging, and laughing and commenting on how cute they were. No lie here... I probably have the most beautiful children and grandchildren, ever to set foot on this earth. I'm pretty sure that Heavenly Father, sent the very cutest ones, for me, their Grandmother to admire.
I'm pretty sure that most grandparents and parents feel the same way, as I do about my grands and kids. I think it was meant to be. So getting back to why I'm writing this post, I wanted to express that one huge way to enjoy life, and find happiness, is to spend time with your family. Those relationships are precious and in reality, are about the only thing that truly matters in life. If you aren't happy, then it's probably due a lot to the relationship or lack there of, of relationships with family.
Everyone has a few black sheep that cause grief on and off, but none the less, they are our children, and that bond is eternal. If you don't have a good relationship with any members of your family, then you can do something about it to turn things around. Less families stay estranged that those who reach out to each other, through change, and effort. My point is that for me, I have chosen to never give up, and keep hope alive for my children who have had setbacks and challenges on their path. It's not easy but definally worth the effort.
If you want to be happy, spend some time with your family. I read somewhere recently that smiling and laughing does a body good. Hope you'll give yourself some joy as you spend time with your family.
