How to Obtain Wisdom From Family Members

Family wisdom gives you maturity and a sense of pride about yourself

Sometimes the best wisdom comes from your family members. Their life stories of pain and triumph can serve as examples of how to live your life in the best way possible. Family wisdom is also important because they give lessons you can pass down to your future children, which preserves the traditions and values of the family.

Instructions

1. Attend family gatherings. At a family reunion, your uncles may share some favorite stories about their childhoods and the silly mistakes they made when they were dating and after marriage and children. They may advise you on continuing with your education and making spirituality a part of your life to keep you on the right track.

2. Read old letters. In a letter your father wrote to your mother while he was overseas in the military during World War II, you'll get an idea of how strong your parents had to be during tough and sometimes dangerous times both in America and in other countries. You may learn the importance of sacrifice and commitment.

3. Ask questions. If your aunt has been living with an illness the past few years, talk to her about how she remains optimistic and strong despite the physical pain and occasional emotional pain. Do not ask questions that are too personal or intrusive because the relative may not want to continue the conversation. This is particularly true in cases where one relative experienced betrayal from a fellow relative and is still hurt by it.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Mom's Words of Wisdom
• Focus on the Family: Traits of Successful Adoptive Families