During the last three decades, my role as parent and teacher consumed most of my moments. Now that my children are grown and I've retired from teaching, I find myself thinking more about the relationships I have. In a sense, this is a time of relationship renewal since I have more time to commit to relationships I value. While my intentions at this stage are good, the work of relationship renewal has not been all good--there have been some bumpy roads and rough transitions. I want to smooth those rough patches in ways that strengthen relationships, uplift respect, and promote greater care for others. To do that requires attention, focus, observation, and listening. To relate well, it's important to know people well and to be there for them in times of need. To relate well also means that you have to know yourself well. You have to understand what you value and want.
Good relationships do not mean that you have to be together all the time, agree all the time, or have everything another needs, but instead it means that the good times you have together are meaningful, positive times of mutual care and kindness. This is a good path for me right now--a positive challenge to meet.