With the sudden colder weather in Wuhan, the planned outing was put on hold. However, this unexpected change presented a special opportunity for our family of four. Recently, I read The Five Languages of Love and was so inspired that I decided to try a whole new way of communicating at home.
We sat around the warm living room and first asked our son to name his four strengths. He was a little shy, but with our encouragement, he was brave enough to express himself. Then, my husband and daughter and I shared two of our son's strengths. This atmosphere of mutual affirmation makes everyone feel valued and valued.
Then, we moved on to a more challenging part. We in turn made a request to our son that he would do one thing for each of us in the next month, and this was one of the things that he usually didn't do very well. In this way, we hope to help him realize his shortcomings and work hard to improve with our joint support.
Finally, we also discussed the strengths of my husband, my daughter, me, and what we need to do for others.
The whole party lasted an hour and a half, no one was playing with their phones and there were no other distractions. We were engrossed in discussing, sharing, laughter and warmth filled the space. Such gatherings allow each of us to feel the warmth and strength of family.
This experience made me deeply realize that the strength of family is often hidden in the bits and pieces of daily life. There is no need for expensive travel, no need for lavish meals, just a simple gesture that can bring the family closer together.