English
EspañolAsk yourself seriously, in-depth, without anyone else present: Within my family, do I kill love? Or am I one of those people who put tenderness, patience, mercy, trust, and companionship in the relationship?
Text
“All family life is a “shepherding” in mercy. Each of us, by our love and care, leaves a mark on the life of others; with Paul, we can say: “You are our letter of recommendation, written on your hearts… not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God.” (The Joy of Love, n.322)
Commentary
We could, without realizing it, be one of those people who consider themselves incapable of harming even a fly. Nevertheless, our sad, bitter, and negative attitudes within our family discourage love and kill it. One must wonder about one’s life-giving or murderous actions within one’s family. The inspiring light of our conjugal relationship cannot be other than that of “loving one another as He loves us” (Jn.15:12), that is, to give-embrace-share our life as Jesus Christ taught us through a thousand details of his own life.
We love our family when we are kind, affectionate, loving, and good to them; when we listen to them and show trust; when we encourage them, cheer them on, and promote the best that is in each of them; when we are generous and go beyond the minimum; when we are sensitive, attentive and aware of their needs and feelings; when we ask for their forgiveness and forgive them; when we are selfless, patient, loving and take care of all. Above all, when we are tender, for the Holy Spirit is tender light.
On the contrary, we do not love when we allow ourselves to be guided by the evil one and deceive, coerce, manipulate and oppress them; when we hinder their development; when we are selfish and self-centered; when we are closed, dark, and malicious, indifferent and cold, and do not take responsibility for the influence we have on the lives of others, especially our family.
Have you ever wondered how you behave within your familial relationships? Do you give life, or do you kill them?
