Table Talk or Drive-through?

This week some of my colleagues and I discussed "traditions" of yesterday. What is a tradition you remember growing up? Is this a part of your life today, has it morphed into a new tradition, or has it passed away just like the time?

A blessing and tradition I believe is less common than when I was in school is sitting around the dinner table with your family. I remember growing up and the laughter, discussions, and rebukes that occurred over "pass the potatoes". Due to my Dad's schedule we might eat later or earlier but eating together was always a priority. A priority my parents still have today. Their tradition of table talk continues to the next generation. 

I am one blessed woman because of my parent's desire to continue family dinners. On the nights when my roller skates are rolling in multiple directions at high speed, we are usually invited up to my parent's house for supper. Oh yeah, we are blessed. Some of my dear friends say I am spoiled but like my Gram Mary used to tell me, "She isn't spoiled, just loved a lot." Teehee...

Most working moms struggle to have dinner on the table each night, so trying to organize a dinner and a time when everyone will be home can be as challenging as world peace sometimes. Most homes have two working parents and children scattered in as many different directions as there are kids. 

So when the opportunity arises, what does a family do? It requires time, effort, and a willingness to "sit". I am guilty of this myself on the days when we might all be home for dinner together but I am so tired, I don't cook. I think this is why my parents cook so much because they know the value and importance of sitting together and enjoying each others company. 

Table talk is a time to know your family on a personal and intimate level. Our kids experience so much each day at school, they need to be asked, "What did you do today?" or "What did you learn today?" or "What was the highlight of your day?" If you don't ask, then they aren't looking for opportunities to grow. These simple questions are one way we invest in our children's lives. 

Another valuable aspect of this family dinner time are the opportunities to invest in your husband or wives life. "How was your day?" or "How was the drive?" or "You look like you had a ____ day, tell me about it." Invest in each other, your marriage is worth it.

The next time you are tempted to go through the fast food drive-through, remember, if your table talk is on the drive-through then so might your relationships. I am not trying to condemn anyone or make you feel guilty. I too am guilty of this poor choice at times too but my admitting my own guilt, I am more conscious of my decisions.

I was raised in a close-knit family and I pray this for my family too.

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Tomorrow's blog will have photos and highlights of the Mexico High School's "Little Women" performance this weekend! Be sure to check it out!