Create Rituals that Foster Connection

In March, my daughter and I attended game night at Starr King.  I cannot remember the last time I laughed so heartily.  I forgot how good it felt!  Playing games allows us to step outside of ourselves for a while, and forget our worries.  It allows us to see the childlike side of adults that they seldom show to others.  It is a great way to build community.   

Consequently, my family decided to hold a weekly game night to foster better communication and connection between us.   We found that our habit of watching TV together in the evenings didn’t foster the kind of interaction we’d like.  So, one night a week we will be forced to work together, and to talk to each other, rather than retreating into our own little worlds.

I encourage you to do something that will keep the communication flowing in your family.  If not game night, then regular discussions during dinner are a good option.  For example, each family member can share one good thing and one bad thing that happened to them that day.  Or, you can ask family members to name one thing that they are grateful for.  A daily gratitude practice is a great way to keep a positive perspective.   

Building and maintaining family and community connections is important work; it is the basis for creating a fair and peaceful world.  I invite you to come and build connections by playing games together.  Our next Game Night will be on Friday, April 15th at 6:00 pm in the Fellowship Hall, families welcome.  A Family that plays together, Stays together!