Being Yourself

Common Advice

When someone is nervous (for example a teenage boy worried about telling a girl about his interest) a common piece of advice is to “just be yourself.” This is a curious statement really, because it depends on one’s particular attitude toward “self” as to what this could really mean. We live in a society that is obsessed with self to the point that to esteem oneself is one of the highest virtues.

Where Were You...

Lasting Exeperiences

There are certain experiences that have such a strong impact on each of our lives that we remember them with great clarity. Momentous events in the lives of our family such as weddings and births stay with us throughout our lives. Outside of personal experiences, there are also national news events which stay with us. We can remember the place we were and the things we were doing when we heard startling news.

Having a Functional Family

The Ideal Family

The ideal family is many times described as being a healthy, functional family unit. Whenever there is a particular breakdown within the family, the term “dysfunctional” is commonly used. As is commonly the case, many times more focus is placed upon the “dysfunctional” side rather than the “functional” side; it is easier to point out flaw rather than to describe good attributes.

Age or Wisdom?

Generational Tension

Within each generation there exists a degree of tension both with the generation before them and the one to come. It is common for one generation to have concern over the choices of the next, believing them to be acting foolishly. Sometimes this concern is founded; sometimes it is just a difference of opinion.