Red Cloud Civics Lesson

Family

Samuel May, a mid-19th century clergyman who fought for the rights of both Blacks and women, had this to say about family.

 The family is the most important institution upon earth. If the duties of father and mother  were generally well discharged, there would be little of importance left for civil  governments to take care of.

Red Cloud emphasized the importance of family in the 1870 Cooper Union speech. He declared — “You have children; we have children” — to highlight the great value of family that the indigenous people shared with his White audience. Keep the following points in mind as you consider the value of your family.

MISSION — On the success journey that you take every day, figure out a way — as much as possible — to take your family along. Do more than just playing cards, watching TV or going to the movies together. Plan a trip, take on a project or blaze new trails; adventure will enrich and strengthen your relationships.

MEASURE — Don’t let work, play, charity or anything else detract you from spending time with your family. Prioritize quality time, which will lead to what really counts in life — being respected and loved by those who are closest to you. One of the greatest measures of personal success is family success.

MOUNTAINTOP —  Endeavor to take family members along on your success journey.

Incorporating them into the different arenas of your life will not only yield deeper meaning but will also likely bring you to the mountaintop of shared joy. Investing your time and energy in family will eventually yield mutual financial, social and personal profit.

Whether it be your natural, extended, professional or spiritual family, what can you do to support family members and strengthen those relationships?

 

 

Civility