I Never Got to Fight With My Mother in Law and I Wish We Had More Time

When I got married, I was excited about the prospect of having a new family. However, I never expected to love my mother in law as much as I did. She was a kind, caring, and warm individual who welcomed me into her family with open arms. In the many years that I knew her, we never once had a fight. Though it may seem strange, I regret that we never had the chance to have an argument or disagreement.

The Importance of Family Relationships

As we go through life, it is easy to become caught up in work, friends, and other activities that may take us away from our families. While it is important to have a balance in life, we must not forget the people who have been there for us throughout our lives - our families. Family relationships are some of the most important relationships we will ever have. They provide us with a sense of belonging and support in times of need. However, these relationships are often neglected in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

If we do not make a conscious effort to build and maintain these relationships, we risk losing them altogether. This is where disagreements and arguments can actually be beneficial. When we have a disagreement with someone, it allows us to work through our differences and come to a better understanding of each other. It also shows that we are willing to invest the time and energy needed to maintain the relationship, even when it is difficult.

"Family relationships are some of the most important relationships we will ever have. They provide us with a sense of belonging and support in times of need."

• A study conducted by the University of Illinois found that spending time with family was one of the most important contributors to happiness in life. This study also found that individuals who had positive relationships with their family members were more likely to have higher levels of life satisfaction overall.
• Another study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family found that individuals who had strong family relationships were less likely to experience depression and anxiety.
• A study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health found that individuals who had supportive relationships with their family members had better physical health and were less likely to experience chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer.

When my father passed away, it was my family that provided me with the support and comfort I needed to get through that difficult time. My siblings and I were always close, but it was during that time that we really came together as a family. I realized then how important family relationships truly are and how we should never take them for granted.

Another example is my friend Jane, who had a falling out with her mother over a disagreement about her career choice. For years, they did not speak to each other. However, after Jane's mother was diagnosed with cancer, she realized how much she missed her mother and how much she regretted not having a better relationship with her. They were able to reconcile and spend precious time together before her mother passed away.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the importance of family relationships cannot be overstated. While it may seem like a chore to invest time and energy into these relationships, it is important to remember that the benefits far outweigh the effort. So next time you have a disagreement with a family member, embrace it as an opportunity to build and strengthen your relationship.

• References:
• University of Illinois. (2018, October 12). Happy families are the biggest contributor to happiness. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181012115555.htm
• Journal of Marriage and Family. (2016, December 2). Strong family relationships linked to lower anxiety and depression in children. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/12/161202134208.htm
• Harvard School of Public Health. (2017, December 4). Strong relationships with parents, children can help prevent 'sandwich generation' burnout https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/12/171204115315.htm

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