Contentment

Contentment is the state of being happy enough with what one has or is; not desiring something more or different. Contented families are steadfast, and do not allow others to define for them what they have to be and have as a family.

Strong families base their life style on what they can afford and can reasonably enjoy - on a concept of stewardship that stresses gratitude for what they have, not whining after what they do not have.

Contentment is the state of being happy and the satisfaction with the resources and circumstances that define the family. Families can promote more contentment with a family approach to goal-setting and decision-making. Members of a family are happier when they feel their opinions matter and that they are respected as contributing members of the family. A family can use the model below to discuss important family decisions:

• identify the issue

• identify and discuss possible options

• compare the options – pros and cons

• make a joint family decision

• apply the decision

• evaluate the decision.

Participating in this decision-making process can encourage family communication. Family members feel that their opinions, ideas, values and feelings are respected. Contentment, happiness and effective decision-making are key elements for strong families. Families can build on their strengths by choosing to strive for contentment in their daily life.

Contentment can be summarized in the following reading. Translate the poem.

Fortunate is the person,

Who in this life can find

A purpose that can fill their days,

And goals to fill their mind!

The world is filled with little people,

Content with where they are;

Not knowing joys success can bring,

No will to go that far.

Yet in this world there is a need,

For people to lead the rest,

To rise above the “average” life,

By giving of their best!

Would you be one, who dares to try

When challenged by the task!

To rise to heights you’ve never seen,

Or is that too much to ask?

This is your day - a world to win,

Great purpose to achieve.

Accept the challenge of your goals

And in yourself believe!

You will hear a person talking about caring and appreciation in a family. For questions 1-3, complete the notes which summarize what he says.

Caring and appreciation

Families are strengthened by expressions of caring and appreciation. Strong families appreciate the uniqueness while cultivating a sense of belonging to the family, and contributions of each family member – expressing feelings of appreciation in words and actions. Family members tell each other they are special. In the hurry of daily responsibilities, we often forget the importance of letting people know how much they are appreciated. It’s so easy to take each other for granted, especially in families.

Showing you care brings family members together. You can show appreciation in three ways:

• Accent a person’s good qualities

• Congratulate family members on their accomplishments

• Show you care through words, a hug or touch, or other gesture

Accept the appreciation sent by other family members as it is important because it establishes trust and good will between people as well as builds self-esteem.

You will need to choose suitable phrases in the box.

We help each other We keep our promises to each other We are kind to each other We are thoughtful to each other We enhance each other’s self-esteem We avoid criticizing each other We enhance each other’s good qualities

1

Building caring and

appreciation

We like to show affection to each other We like to hug each other We wait for each other without complaining We forgive each other We practice good manners at home and with others We create a pleasant environment at home

2

Ways of expressing

appreciation

We feel close to each other We grow stronger because we love each other We feel safe and secure in our interactions with each other We express feelings of appreciation in words and actions

3

Feelings

What makes each of your family members special and unique?

Using the following list, write the family member's name beside each characteristic that applies to him/her. You may put more than one name beside an item.