What does it mean to relate? Let's look that up.
Have a connection between
Having reference to; concern
Feel sympathy with; identify with
Connected by blood or marriage
This is an interesting set of definitions from Google. We will discuss some of the implications of these definitions, but first, let's review.
In my last 'relatives' post, entitled Relatives: Part I, we talked about the task of dealing with difficult relatives.
So, in this post, I would like to discuss family ties from another angle. Yes, sometimes, it is difficult to deal with family members or anyone who uses their connection to you, or your connection to another, to manipulate a response from you. Though they may not be fully aware of their error, you must draw boundaries in your relationships. And even in those relationships which seem healthy, boundaries are good ways to KEEP them healthy.
Boundaries are NOT to be used as punishment against family members, kids, or spouses! Boundaries should be discussed and understood. A boundary is not an excuse to ignore someone or cut them off, unless the conversations are toxic and non-productive.
Remember: Family is important, it is your connection, it is a place you can identify with, it is the place that we learn empathy, and it is blood, marriage, tears, etc.
Learn from Sarri Gilman about proper boundaries in family relationships and find purpose in it.
Thank you for reading and watching!
The Editor
Ramzi Elassadi
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