Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Family Life in Christ


God ordained the Christian family to have a specific design - a man and a woman united in marriage, together with their children. The family is called the domestic church because it is a community of faith, hope and charity. Within the family, we first learn to respect the sanctity of life from conception to natural death. This means welcoming children into the marriage through birth or adoption but also learning to show reverence for the life of others such as the elderly, the infirm, the poor, the disabled, and the imprisoned.

Every member of the Christian family has a God-ordained function. Though equal in the sight of God, men and women have entirely different responsibilities. As stated so clearly in the Catechism: “Divine fatherhood is the source of human fatherhood...” which reaffirms the importance of man’s function as the head of the family. Though equal (as God) to the Father, Christ himself lived and died in supreme obedience to the will of the Father. Throughout faith history, men have been called to leadership roles by God, from Adam to Noah to David to Moses to Paul to Peter. This call to leadership does not necessarily infer perfection, capability or skill, but the call is nonetheless intrinsic to manhood. Pervasive gender-role confusion in our society today makes it is easy to dismiss or compromise this primordial function of men to lead their families to God.

To carry out their responsibility, men are to be servant leader of all in their charge. Leaders provide a clear vision, set a solid example, and help others in their pursuit of holiness. Fathers must ensure that their children are brought up in the faith, the beginning of which is their own life being one of Christian holiness. Men who abdicate their leadership responsibility under some mistaken notion of “sensitivity” bring disorder into the family and the society. A simple review of crime statistics in our land reveals the terrible impact of fathers who ignored or minimized their prescribed role.

Woman’s role as wife and mother differs from but complements that of the man. St. Paul reminds us of God’s intent to provide a helpmate and partner to man, “For man was not made from woman, but woman from man. Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man.”(1 Cor 11: 8-9).

Modeling themselves on the Blessed Mother, women are called to support and honor their husband’s role asleader of the family. In her function as wife and mother, a woman brings wonderful attributes such as nurturing care, tenderness and compassion to family life. As with her husband, a wife is called to a life of holiness and Christian example.

Children are called to proffer respect for parents out of gratitude for having given them the gift of life (CCC #2216-2218)*. Respect is shown by docility and obedience to parents during one’s childhood. Obedience ceases with emancipation, but respect does not. Grown children are reminded to assist their aging parents as much as possible with material and moral support, as well as in times of illness, loneliness and distress.

Sacramental marriage is the foundation of the family. It is the gift of self, a gift that is freely given and total in nature. The perpetual and exclusive bond of marriage creates the sanctuary wherein the security of the family rests. The sacred covenant finds its physical manifestation in the sexual intimacy of the marriage act between man and wife (CCC #2360; also Tob 8: 4-9). Reflecting this covenant, the spouses’ physical union honors the twofold end of marriage, which is to serve the good of the spouses (the “unitive”) and to be open to the transmission of life (the “procreative”).

Children are the supreme gift of marriage, in contrast to our societal view which considers them a “right.” In our zeal to conceive a child at all costs, medical science offers us numerous techniques that attempt to produce a child by the disassociation of husband and wife or the involvement of a third party (such as donation of sperm or ovum, surrogate uterus, or in-vitro fertilization). These actions violate the child’s right to be born of a loving act of father and mother. All such techniques are morally unacceptable (CCC # 2376-77). It is impossible to live the sacramental life while engaging in such practices, for we knowingly introduce other persons and processes into the loving act of procreation, an act that belongs rightly to husband, wife and God.

The intentional spacing of children, if undertaken for just reasons, also demands that we observe moral norms. Periodic continence (methods based on self-observation and the use of infertile periods, such as Natural Family Planning) respects the individual spouses and offers a mutually supportive, natural means of spacing. On the other hand, artificial birth control or any action which frustrates or thwarts the normal outcome of the procreative act defrauds God and falsifies the marital act. All such methods are morally unacceptable (CCC #2370).

It is impossible to live the sacramental life while actively engaging in any contraceptive practices, for we knowingly defraud God of the result of a loving act due to our selfishness and sinful pride.Upon assuming the role of parents, we must remember that we have the “primordial and inalienable” responsibility for the education of our children (CCC #2221-23). While we can delegate certain educational duties to a formal school, we cannot delegate responsibility for oversight of our children’s education. The term “education” means more than just secular studies, for home must be the place for evangelization and catechesis. First, we must give our children a solid grounding in the virtues. Second, we must offer apprenticeship in self-mastery, self-denial and sound judgment, so they can learn to forego pleasures in the spirit of Christian discipline. This helps widen their focus outside of the family in order to see the needs of others. Third, education in the Catholic faith means creating an environment of personal and family prayer, participating in devotions (such as Enthronement, Adoration, Novenas, Stations of the Cross and the Rosary), attending Parish Missions, and ensuring thorough Sacramental preparation. Fourth, we must guide children in exploring potential vocations, especially being open to God’s call to the priesthood or religious life. All of these efforts point to the only true goal in the education of our children - to make them holy people.

All of this responsibility may seem daunting to the average Catholic parent. Like any task, however, we can create hope by building a strategy for success. Consider the following as a guide:

A. Set and Honor Priorities - Make it known that God is first in your life and let your decisions consistently reflect God’s preeminent place. Ensure that the family’s choices regarding books, magazines, entertainment, and clothing all reflect proper Christian values. Ensure that attendance at Mass on Sundays and Holy Days (and especially while on vacation) is a family priority. Let the family home proudly exhibit signs and symbols of our faith.

B. Distinguish between Vocation and Occupation- Understand the distinction between “what we are” versus “what we do.” Success in our vocation (married, single or priest/religious) is our life’s goal. Our occupation, on the other hand, is merely what we do to pay the bills. God cares deeply how we embrace our chosen vocation, whereas it matters little to Him what field we choose to earn our daily bread. As any committed Catholic parent will affirm, it is infinitely harder to live one’s vocation than it is to succeed at a chosen occupation. Why? Because our vocation demands that we give everything of ourselves, a notion that runs contrary to our culture. Does the next rung of the career ladder undergo prayerful scrutiny for its impact on our chosen vocation or is it weighed solely for its occupational benefits?

C. Embrace a Vigorous Sacramental Life - Continue to foster a love of the Sacraments in your children once they initially receive by having the same level of commitment yourself. Demand of yourself an ever-higher standard of Christian behavior rather than simply remaining at the same level year after year. Start a relationship with a spiritual director.

D. Surround Yourself with Committed Catholic Families - Americans love “support groups,” so why not as part of our faith journey? Have the courage to discontinue relationships if certain friends do not support your moral values. Make an active effort to be involved in parish life beyond the Sunday “obligation.” Be willing to be challenged by others more advanced in the faith to delve deeper into its mysteries.

E. Continue Your Education in the Catholic Faith - Consider the last 10 books youhave read. Did they support or conflict with your faith values? Ensure that your faith education includes doses of Scripture, Catechism, Lives of the Saints, Papal Encyclicals, Council Documents and works of Spirituality.

F. Actively Demonstrate Christian Service - Remember that, “...a contented Christian does not exist.” We are called to mix it up with society and fearlessly speak out against injustice, poverty and wrongdoing. In short, being Catholic means being countercultural, just as Jesus was countercultural. Our family life must reflect the admonition of St. James that, “...Faith without works is dead.” (Jm 2:14) and render Christian service in a truly selfless way. Sincere actions will instill in our children the importance of a life focused on service to others.

“We are not called to success, just faithfulness.”

Mother Teresa

*Catechism of the Catholic ChurchFree Web Content, Second Edition.
Article Tags: Family Life, Sacramental Life
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Bonding With Your Family

The fun that you can bring your family will always be treasured. There are available activity which you can spend time with the whole family. Adventure places are now offering a complete package for the family to enjoy while on vacation. They have a lot of activities available that all ages can participate. These will really build good relationship to each member of the family. With this attitude you are already building your strong relation with them while enjoying. There are also different adventures for the parents.

The choices of the right things to do are also very important in planning in whatever type of vacation idea they will have. This will make sure that no one will feel uncomfortable while on vacation, every member of the family will try to enjoy each prepared activities. Participating in every activity is also important to make sure no one is bored. During spare time you can also have an opportunity to discuss interested things with the whole family, this is one way to open up stories that will give time to every member to listen and will also lead to a much better relationship. The variety of foods prepared will make this a much enjoyable time because everyone will really enjoy eating.

If there is one thing to consider why to have this plan with your family are the kids. The participation they will have will really mean a lot to every activity. The ability to react on every task you will give them will also show if they are really enjoying what they are doing. The encouragement you will show them is important to develop their skills and confidence.

Next are the teenagers, observed more with these ages because these are the one that really show different attitude while doing activities. How they react is very important. The way they treat each other will also show on how they respect toward each family member. Each parent is aware that children at this age must be guided accordingly, they start to become more aggressive on what they are doing and they can easy adapt influences that lead them in a miserable life if they are taken for granted. With a strong family tie there is less worries that this will happenPsychology Articles, with the idea of spending time with the family will really make your relationship stronger. Enjoy the fun with the whole family while having this kind of activities.

Families who are having fun by treating each other is very important to make sure that you do not keep secrets that are not important. Spend time to relax and enjoy at least once a week. This will motivate each member of the family to be more open and learn how to share ideas. The best thing in this world to make anyone become a complete person is to have a family to enjoy every moment with.

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Sunday, January 8, 2012

Unhappy in Marriage – Being unhappy in marriage can result from depression

Unhappy in marriage?  It could be that you're unhappy in marriage because you’re clinically depressed.  And as anyone who has dealt with serious depression knows, it can wreak havoc on you as an individual, as well as significantly impact your spouse and your marriage. That’s why it’s absolutely crucial, when you’re unhappy in your marriage, that you take responsibility for your own individual emotional health. Many times, couples who are unhappy in marriage think something’s wrong with their relationship, when often it’s an individual problem that has repercussions in the marriage. The fact is that if one partner is emotionally unhealthy or unhappy, it’s going to be hard for the marriage as a whole to be healthy and happy.
So if you’re unhappy in marriage and a primary reason is that you’re dealing with depression, we urge you to see a professional who can help you. There’s a good chance that with therapy and possibly medication, you can begin to deal effectively with your unhappiness.
It’s also important that you get clear on the facts about depression, and how it can make you unhappy in marriage. The more knowledge you can attain regarding what you’re going through, the quicker you can move toward recovery.  A good place to start when you’re feeling unhappy in marriage is the major categories of depression:
Endogenous Depression and unhappiness in marriage Being unhappy in marriage may result from endogenous depression, which comes from a biochemical disturbance in the hormonal system, the nervous system, or even from an infection in the body. It seems to arise spontaneously, is usually found in the elderly or in psychotic disorders, and requires medical intervention.
Reactive Depression and unhappiness in marriage Being unhappy in marriage may also result from reactive (or exogenous) depression, which occurs as a result of a real, imagined, or threatened loss and usually lasts no longer than a few months. This is the typical depression found in adolescents, and for them, counseling is the usual treatment.
Neurotic Depression and unhappiness in marriage Being unhappy in marriage may also result from neurotic depression, which is a lifestyle response to stress and anxiety. It is used to escape from other emotions and develops over a long period of time.
Masked Depression and unhappiness in marriage Finally, being unhappy in marriage may result from masked depression. Here the depression is hidden by other symptoms. For exampleFree Articles, a teenager who has lost a parent may cover his or her depression by acting out sexually or abusing drugs.
Being acquainted with these different types of depression lets you begin to shine the light of awareness on any unhappiness in marriage that you and your spouse are dealing with.
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Friday, January 6, 2012

The Law of Attraction

The Law of Attraction is the universal law that can help you find your soulmate. It says that you will attract to you those people, events, and experiences that match your state of being. If you focus on having gratitude for the love, companionship, and joy you have in your life right now, you will attract more of that into your life. If you focus on what you don’t have, you will send out a message of lack and you will attract more lack into your life.

In the movie “Conversations with God” the character Neale says to God: “I just want my life back.” And God says to Neale: “You can’t have anything that you want.”

They then have an entire dialogue where God explains to Neale that by ‘wanting something (or someone)’ all you get to have is the experience, the feeling of ‘wanting'. I think there's something to be learned from that.

As part of the preparation to manifest your soul mate I suggest that you begin the process of “living as if.” This means that your daily actions become congruent with your beliefs. For instance, I once heard a story about the great actress Della Reese. During the time she was waiting for her soul mate to arrive, she would set a place at the table for him each time she had a meal. Eventually, he arrived. Della sent a clear message to the Universe and the Universe delivered.

Many years ago, there was a woman by the name of Gayle that was advised by her astrologer to put her intentions for a soul mate into the world by coloring a mandala. She took a black & white mandala and a rainbow of multi-colored pencils and began declaring her intentions while she colored in a space on the mandala. She asked for things like: finding the perfect spiritual friend and lover to go through life with; a man who is kind to animals; someone who would appreciate her sense of humor; a man who would be accepting and open to her spiritual quest. For each intention she used a different color until the entire mandala became a multi-hued Technicolor testimony to the qualities she desired in her future partner. Within weeks of doing this she met her soul mate and they have now been married for more than 20 years!
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Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Living In a Sexless Marriage? Here's How To Repair Your Marriage Today

If you're living in a sexless marriage, it's time you do something about the state of your marriage before it's too late. Larry Bilotta explains how women have the power to make their husband into the man of their dreams in just one week if the marriage is not yet at "The Point Of No Return". Find out how...
The Indisputable Power of a Woman-written by a man
Why is it that men don’t change after marriage, but women do? In the process of answering this question we will draw one conclusion that will be the elephant in the room: The power of a woman to create the man of her dreams is indisputable.
To answer this profound question, let’s look at the "inner workings" of a woman. When women are single and searching for a man, this "mystery man" is often referred to as “Mr. right”. You could even say that the foremost question on a single woman's mind (when she's looking for a man) is "When is Mr. Right going to come along?"
Women enter relationships with an idealistic vision of what her "soul mate" will look, act and treat her like. And why shouldn't she? From an early age, as a little girl, she reads story tales about a "Night in Shining Armor" rescuing the princess from an Evil villain. Little girls adore the idea of being a princess and even at a young age, many even fantasize about their wedding day!
When women are dating, they use all of their assets to attract a man. They put careful detail into wearing the right sexy outfit, the right perfume, and try their best to keep the atmosphere light, fun and full of excitement. Women do all of this because their plan - their mission, is to find the man who will give them emotional and financial security. (This is a deep-seeded need of all women, not necessarily something they consciously think about.)
During the dating stage of a relationship however, these two needs are secondary.
A woman’s "public" goal during her dating life is to find a guy who is “nice” and “fun”. That’s her public goal. It’s what she says SAYS wants, but that’s not close to her true mission. A smart woman brings excitement into the relationship when dating because she knows that’s what will maintain the chemistry between them.
Then the day comes when the wedding photos arrive and life begins. Life becomes overwhelming. All the fun and excitement in the pre-marriage relationship has now come to a slow, and grinding stop.
With all the chemistry slowly seeping out of the relationship, a woman's goal is now to “develop” her man into someone who will give her emotional and financial security. It’s her unspoken expectation. (That even women don't realize they want.)
In married life, every effort her husband makes dismally fails to meet this expectation and instead creates frustration, resentment and mixed feelings. All she ever wanted, she reasons, is for her husband to make her feel safe so she can build her ideal life and family.
But to her surprise, the man she marries STILL craves the fun and excitement from back when they were dating. Unfortunately for both of them, his inability to explain this need and her inability to remember what she used to do during the dating days, combines to create a new tension in the relationship that did not exist before.
In a man's mind, he fears that if he speaks up and tells his wife that he misses the fun-filled exciting woman she used to be, she'll become offended and "chew his head off". After all, she's exhausted after she fulfills her long list of daily tasks, let alone cater to her husband's every need.
Her husband now feels like he’s still on her priority list, but somewhere way down towards the bottom. This feeling, this belief, does BAD THINGS for a man's confidence.
Women who know how to maintain the excitement in their marriage are few and far between....especially after being married for 5+ years. This is obviously not about “giving your husband sex”. Sex is not what he actually wants (whether he knows it or not). What every (or the great majority of men) want is for his beautiful woman to thrill him with the idea that he excites her.
A woman's power to communicate “you excite me” is all a man needs to become totally dedicated to his woman.
Any woman who dresses and acts in a way that lets her man know he could excite her sexually, touches a man in a place where he believes he can conquer the world for her. Any wish, need or slight desire she might express, will send him on a mission to fulfill her greatest wishes.
But in order to do this, you must put all the resentment aside if you want your husband to be 100% devoted to you. If you're willing to take this first step, you'll find these kind of results becoming reality...
...You want your husband to stop talking or looking at the woman who lives next door? Done!
...You want him to go to his boss and get a raise? Not a problem!
...You want more time to yourself away from the house and other responsibilities? You've got it!
If you are a woman reading this right now, you might wonder HOW you can discover your husband's deepest desires.
Learn how by reading the conclusion of this article at Larry Bilotta's Blog, Save Your Marriage Today.
Or copy and paste http://saveyourmarriagetoday.blogspot.com/2007/10/undisputable-power-of-woman-witten-by.html in your browser.
AN IMPORTANT NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR: If you're reading this thinking to yourself, "Larry has no idea what he's talking about...a woman should not have to do anything to earn her husband's devotion" or "Easier said than done LarryBusiness Management Articles, my wife is going to have to do more than this to earn MY devotion..." then you NEED to read the conclusion to this article on my blog. I have already been met with resistance to this idea and I've addressed it at the bottom of my blog entry above.
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Sunday, January 1, 2012

Save A Marriage With Commitment and Communication

There is a common saying that marriages are made in heaven. However, the increasing incidences of divorces that are taking place all around the world have surely shrouded this saying in a blanket of cynicism. A couple always hopes for the best when they say their wedding vows at the altar and are pronounced husband and wife by the minister once the "I do's" have been asserted with conviction. For many couples the first signs of trouble appear in the marriage even before their honeymoon phase is over. With so much emotional investment made into the relationship, it would be a wise decision to make an attempt to save a marriage rather than letting go of it without a fight. If there is any chance for reconciliation, you should take a chance and try to work things out with your partner and try to start afresh.
In many cases, any creases in the relationship can be ironed out easily with proper communication and making the effort to clear any misunderstandings. You can either attempt to do this on your own or seek the services of a professional marriage counselor to help you get past your differences and reach a common ground. If your love life has a knack of going wrong, you should not hesitate in seeking help. However, any attempt to save a marriage can only be successful when both partners are prepared to give another chance to their relationship. You can overcome the problems in your marital life by opting for expert counselling.
There is no formula as such for a perfect marriage. However, it would be safe to say that open channels of communication, unwavering commitment, mutual respect and care can take you a long way in the right direction. Some of the most common causes of rifts in marriages arise as a result of lack of the above. You can always save a marriage by taking small steps that can prevent minor rows from turning into heated arguments that more often than not drive a wedge between the couple.
Simple gestures of love such as complimenting your partner every now and then, spending more time with him or her and showering affection without any particular reason can help you cement your relationship further. It also helps to be a good listener and talk things out rather than being bottled up about an issue that is bothering you. Also, do not hesitate in apologizing for a mistake and never sleep after a fight. Make up before going to bed and start afresh the next morning.
Are you looking for newlywed advice? Be sure to visit my site to read my Mind Movies review.
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