I am a firm believer that LOVE should start at home. I think so many family dysfunctions (and I had them, too) could have been aborted if children had grown up having good loving parents as role models. I believe that is why television had a more positive effect in the past, regardless of imagery or identity.
Many people enjoyed the early sitcom examples of the Cleavers, with a mom and a professional dad who provided for the family, living in a lovely neighborhood with a white picket fence. Although June cleaned and cooked all day, she seemed happy, and at the end of the day, they all were happy that Beaver had learned his lesson. During my childhood, the hit family show was The Cosbys. It was also idyllic, but both parents were professional and loving but strict with their children, often allowing them to get into a big mess so they would learn from their mistakes. The Cosbys were close nit and cultural; they saw their grandparents often, they danced, sang, attended jazz concerts, and Cliff donned HBCU hoodies like he was still on the yard. They were a beautiful example of black family values. Another favorite from my youth was reruns of The Munsters. Even Herman was an in-home dad who hit the pavement in those thick-soled Dr. Martens each morning to take care of his extended family. You all remember Grandpa and the blonde, normal cousin that the Munsters called unattractive. But my favorite parts included Herman trying to put the moves on Lily.
These shows revealed love and responsibility starting at home. I don’t know about you, but I miss that. Today’s television has a lot of hooking up (lust), career anxiety, and unplanned pregnancies. It is art imitating life, and that should tell us something. Perhaps we want to incorporate some old-school values while still making strides in STEM.
ADOPTED FAMILIES
“Family first” is a motto people use in business to show the corporation or organization cares about their employees and is willing to be flexible should they have a family crisis. They want staff members to know their job is not in jeopardy should life happen—a sick spouse, parent, or child. The concept is full of compassion and creates a healthy family environment at work as a result. Employees never have to fear being kicked out of the workplace-family should they need a little time off for their immediate family.
Family can also include those who practice the same faith, like Christianity. In Galatians 6:10, the text reads, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all, especially for those who belong to the household of faith.” I think this is a family first verse. We are to take care of those in our Church family and treat them as a sister or a brother. Send a wellness text: “Hey Sister So-and-So, How are you? I didn’t see you last week.” or “Hey Brother Man: How did the presentation go?”
Jesus said, “I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:34-35 CSB)
Maybe if we put these two concepts of loving our immediate family first by being a provider, engaging in P.D.A. (public displays of affection), plus planning activities for our family to do together, and secondly, working for the good of those who are in our spiritual family, then we would see some brighter days ahead.
Moreover, we might see more love in our world (even on television). Today I will start showing more love at home and within my Christian community, with my readers and those who provide daily services for my sister. I believe my actions will do some good.
Thanks for reading and loving each other, family! Really,
Single and blessed, Sister Leah (Ha!Ha!)
Happy Valentine’s Day ❤️ in honor of the patron Saint Valentine of engaged couples and happy marriages.
Thanks for the blessing 💕🙏🏾