Latoya Campbell, Gleaner Writer
Adults look on while the children enjoy themselves.
Mom and Dad work until late every night, Cathycan't afford to miss her practices with the quiz team and Jason'sdaily football training is mandatory. There's no time to cook; takeout will have to do, and the list goes on.
For some reason, it seems as if the days have become extremely short. There's hardly enough time to fit in all your activities in a day anymore. Everything goes by in such a rush that we often lose sight of the most important people in our life: family.
What does family mean to you?
If you're like me, it means a group of people who are, as the saying goes, 'family by default but friends by choice'. Whether you live in an extended family that's constantly filled with people, or with a parent or relative, maintaining a good relationship with your family is important. Ultimately, the family is perhaps the only permanent thing that you have in your life.
For many, some of the best experiences are those shared with family. Outlook got an idea of some things that young persons love about their family.
"Sunday dinners come to mind; when we're all there just chatting and having a good laugh over food. Otherwise, I think it's the way we can be really upset with each other one minute but we still watch out for each other if the need arises."
- Elroy, 19
"My family is huge, but we still manage to find time for each other. I love it when we plan reunions; just seeing everyone together is a great experience."
- Shakir, 21
"I love the fact that we communicate with each other and have a general understanding. My best moments are at Christmas. No matter how busy we are during the year, we always come together as a family for dinner at my grandmother's house."
- Dwayne, 23
"When my sister and I were younger we realised that the family wasn't spending enough time with each other. Our young minds managed to plan a road trip, then we gave the proposal to them so that they could make it a reality. To this day we still talk about that trip. Otherwise, I love the crazy moments I share with my family, and although we're parishes apart, we still have a lively relationship."
- Stephanie, 20
Keeping the family together
It's an 'all for one and one for all' situation; no member can do it alone. It's not only the adult's responsibility. It takes everyone's commitment and cooperation to improve family time. Outlook Youth understands the importance of family life, and so we've decided to share a few tips with you that can aid in improving your family relationship.
Keep it simple; a trip with your parents to the supermarket could be even more meaningful than an expensive vacation. Take the time to catch up and keep up to date with what is going on in each other's life. If possible, try to make decisions together. Not only will that help to develop responsibility in the younger ones, but everyone will feel like they are truly a part of the family. Make Friday nights 'Family movie night'. Rent a wholesome family movie and make some popcorn, or you can even choose a weekly show to watch together. What you do with the time is up to you, as long as it's memorable.The foundation of the society is the family, and in order for our country to thrive, it is important that our families stay together and help to build each other.
Not actual names
For the most interesting teen issues and styles, get your copy of Youthlink magazine on news-stands on Tuesday.
