No matter what happens in life, family bonds are inseparable. They were the people who were with you during your lowest points in life and continue to remain until then. They were also the ones who sheltered you, gave you a place to belong, and served as your overall backbone.
Thus, it is proper that you should repay them for all they have done for you. However, repaying them does not mean that it should be through any monetary value; it is making sure your parents or grandparents get their social security disability claims if they need it or making sure their insurances are up to date. Repaying your family could also be in the form of emotional and psychological support.
With that, these are some ways you can support your family:
1. Be patient
Family members are the closest people that one could be with. Thus, there would be times wherein you may be impatient with their response or reactions brought about by aging or other possible reasons. For example, if you have a family member who has gone through war, you would need to understand that they may be experiencing post-traumatic disorders hindering them from their response.
2. Provide moral support
Human beings cannot survive on their own. People rely on their family and friends to act as foundations of guidance, particularly during challenging times. Having a sturdy cluster of family and friends who are supportive of you can help you improve your mental health.
Your family is your number one cheerleader. Thus, one must repay this by providing the same amount of support they gave to you. Be supportive of their dreams and aspirations.
3. Be respectful
It is considered to be one of the most beautiful manifestations of love. People are taught to be respectful of others from a young age, and this is something people have always done. Individuals who are respectful of others have a better value in life. At the same time, respect encompasses more than just showing consideration for your family and friends; it also encompasses integrity and self-love.
Respect alongside trust is one of the main things that glue a family together. This is needed, especially if you have a family member who is a war veteran. Do note that being irresponsible for your actions can affect them.
4. Be open to communication
A family that knows how to communicate with one another stays together. Be sensitive to their needs without being too pushy. Become their safe place to vent out all their innermost thoughts and problems.
5. Make time
Spending quality time with family helps to inculcate trust in all of its members. When people know that they are appreciated and praised by their loved ones, they feel empowered. This is especially true for families.
With endless tasks and jobs, it can be challenging to make time with your family. That is why as much as possible when you are together, try to make it up for them.
6. Indulge in recreational activities
In the case wherein you did make time to bond with your family, try to unwind and relax. Find recreational activities that are suitable for all ages. Again, if you do have a family member who is a war veteran, make sure that they enjoy these activities and do not feel left out.
7. Visit other relatives
Make time to visit other relatives as well. You may go to your ancestral home to revisit and rekindle the ties of family.
8. Manage problems together
Keep in mind that you are not alone. Your family will always be at your back. Thus, when a family member is experiencing any problems, do take time to listen and provide them with comfort and possible solutions.
9. Avoid being pessimistic
Do not discourage your family members. You would never know the courage they gathered to share their dreams with you yet only to be shattered by your pessimism.
10. Be careful of the words you say
There will be times wherein words just involuntarily go out of your mouth. Whether you mean them or not, take note that everything you’ll say can heavily affect the feelings of your family. Family members who are war veterans can be somewhat sensitive; that is why one should always be mindful of their words.
Once again, keep in mind that your family is your ally. They will not leave you nor forsake you. Remember to always provide support to them as much as possible and be a good listener.
