Culture & Connectedness
In Part 1 of this series, we discussed what culture is and why it’s so important to building connectedness within the family. Here are some specific ways to build stronger connections.
Foster Close Contact with Grandparents
Stay in close contact with grandparents and great-grandparents.
As much as it depends on you, foster this relationship. Do not let petty quarrels prevent a real relationship with grandparents. Put yourself in a good place about this. If there are serious concerns, then these should be addressed. You may be justified in not fostering the relationship. Maybe.
Allow a lot of grace in this area. Also remember, your children are watching how YOU treat your parents. This has powerful implications for your relationship with them when they become adults.
Teach them to love culture
Teach them to love their culture.
At the same time, teach them that EVERYONE has a culture, and it is beautiful to them.
A love and openness to learning about other cultures from their friends, school, and others in the community, is especially important.
Evaluate your culture
Evaluate your culture for negative aspects of it.
As we discussed, culture is a living thing. As human rights issues, women’s rights, and minority rights have evolved, so should your culture. It is not acceptable to propound aspects of your culture that directly oppose basic human rights and the rights of children.
In short, measure everything by scripture and the word of God. Where the New Testament has addressed an issue, it trumps the Old Testament. Where the New Testament is silent, there is freedom to instill a love of one’s culture.
Study God's Word
Read and study the word of God with your children.
This should be part of your family’s culture. For some, the Bible has been central to home life for generations. For many, it’s a recent addition.
There is something divine that happens in homes where the Bible is read and directs family life. Remember though, that children will learn from what you do, not what you say. If your Bible reading is a sham and is not reflected in your daily life, your children will discern this. You will turn them away from Christ and from this important part of their life.
Legacy
What do you want to transmit to the next generation? What do you want your children to pass on down the line?Â
It is important to think on these things and decide what you stand for.
Stories connect us. Stories have connected people for millennia. Stories of valor, strength, honor, justice, kindness, and determination build up our children and build connectedness. This helps to prepare your child for the good work that the Lord put them here to do. And it is an amazing privilege that God chose YOU to prepare them!Â
Enjoy the journey!
Doc Tibbs
🌷🌼🌻
to have Healthy Relationships
Is your relationship with your teen child strained or difficult?
Fostering healthy relationships is vital for the social and emotional well-being of teenagers. By promoting open communication, teaching empathy, setting boundaries, and being positive role models, parents can provide the necessary guidance and support for their teen to navigate the complexities of friendships. Your involvement and guidance as a parent plays a significant role in shaping a teenager’s social experiences and helping them establish meaningful connections with their peers.
Join Dr. Tibbs, as she provides an easy-to-read handbook based on personal parenting experiences as well as her professional experience as a pediatrician. Rest assured that your best parenting days are still ahead of you!
CORDS:
Reflections on Weaving the Tapestry of Life
Dr. Tibbs’ book is a powerful meditation on the meaning of family, identity, and community. There’s something beautiful about learning to love your culture and simultaneously cultivating in your children the awareness that everyone has a culture or heritage that is important to them.
