Fridays Are For Family – The Power of Positive Expressions

31 May Fridays Are For Family – The Power of Positive Expressions

There are few things that are more powerful in relationships than words of affirmation and affection. This is especially true in our relationship with our family.  I can remember as I was growing up looking and listening for those types of expressions from my parents. While my parents weren’t perfect (what parents are?) they still made sure to let me know that they loved me and were proud of me.

I have taken my personal experience and made it a point to pass down positive expressions to my children.  I know that little girls need to know that they are loved. So, I make sure every day – multiple times a day – to hug and kiss and tell my little girl that I love her. Aside from the fact that I do love her, there are some very practical reasons for doing that. I don’t want her to grow up looking for love and affection and not finding it.  I don’t want the first boy that comes along and tells her that he loves her to totally sweep her off her feet.  I want her to think, when she first hears those words from some would be Casanova, “That’s nothing. My daddy tells me he loves me all the time.”  I also want her to develop a healthy sense of self-esteem and know how to give and receive affection.

My boys need affirmation. I know that.  Of course I tell them that I love them, just like I tell LK that I’m proud of her.  But the emphasis for Jack and Benjamin is that they’ve done a good job and that I’m proud of them. They are going to need that kind of assurance as they grow into young men. It will set the stage for the rest of their life.  I know that there are many men today who are still working and struggling to get affirmation from a father who never expressed it. They never feel good enough. They never think that they’ve accomplished enough for their dad to be proud of them. As a result they are not confident, committed leaders where they work or live.  I don’t want my little boys growing up carrying those kinds of chains. So, when I tuck them in at night I make sure that they know that I’m proud of them.

There is a spiritual reason for doing all of these things as well. The Bible tells us in many places that God is our father and that we are to relate to Him as children. That’s why I want to make sure that my children have a healthy, happy relationship with me – their father.  I want our relationship with each other to help them to have a healthy, happy and even holy relationship with their heavenly Father.

So, with that in mind, let me share with you some little phrases and expressions that I really believe can help you show and share your affection and affirmation for your family today.

I love you.
I’m proud of you.
Way to go.
Good job.
You’re a real joy.
Great!
You’re such a good helper.
I believe in you.
I trust you.
Beautiful work.
Marvelous!
Give me a hug.
Give me a kiss.
Excellent job.
You figured it out.
You remembered.
You gave it your all.
Hooray for you!
You sure are pretty.
You sure are handsome.
You just made my day.
Tremendous!
I’m praying for you.
You’re so special to me.
You are such a big boy.
You’re such a good big sister.
Magnificent!
You figured it out all by yourself.
You’re a real trooper.
I support you.
I’m here for you.
You’re the best!

Why not try a few of these expressions of affection and affirmation on your family today? I think you’ll be surprised how sharing just a few of these can make them stand taller and stronger, make them happier and healthier as well as deepen and strengthen your relationship with them today.