Designing a passionate life includes your relationship with your family and being of service. I just watched an episode of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and is the case whenever I watch that show it touches me deeply. It really puts my life into perspective and I stop and list what I am grateful for. This particular episode was about a single father, age 54 raising five boys ranging in age from 14-19. Their mother left them 14 years ago and their father has raised them alone. They live in Camden, New Jersey, which is one of the poorest cities in the United States.
The family was living in the poorest of conditions and just putting food on the table was a struggle. What I noticed as I watched this family is the deep connection between the boys and their father. The complete appreciation, respect, and love they visibly showed for their father. Emotions were raw and openly expressed. The boys openly expressed love for their father and each other and acknowledged that family meant everything to them and kept them focused and on track. It was clear that by binding together they are a force that will succeed.
The neighborhood is riddled with drugs and poverty. What I saw was a father who was passionate about his family and who loved his boys above all else. I saw a man who let his boys know they were loved and helped keep his family focused on what they had, not on what they didn't have. Because of that love, his boys stay out of trouble and all of them want to have productive lives. Considering the environment in which they live, I believe that this is a powerful demonstration for the power of love.
What impressed me the most was that the father started a support group for other single fathers in the neighborhood. I find it an inspiration that this man who struggles to put food on the table for his family, has the energy and the passion to help others who are going through the same problems. I was humbled by his determination, outward expression of love, hope, and passion. He also demonstrated to me that no matter what you have or don't have, you always have something to give to others. You can always find a way to be of service.
I was once again reminded about the power of love and that no matter what your circumstances; you have something to give back. This family was also demonstrated that matter what the challenge, take each moment as it comes, stay focused on your passions and move forward one step at a time.
What does your family mean to you? How do you show your appreciation for each other? How do you give back to your community? Where do your passions come into play in family and community?
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