DINNER TIME

An important part of family time. Dinner is when everyone can gather around and talk about their day, what they've learned and experienced.

When I was a kid, we played outside. The rule was that we had 15 minutes to get inside once the street lights went on. Sure, our family had its challenges. But I remember eating dinner together almost every night. With today's schedules and endless distractions from the endless amount of electronic gadgetry, it's as if family time is getting lost. Hey I'm guilty at times. My wife and I find ourselves eating dinner in front of the television, muting the volume for a quick moment to squeeze in a prayer of grace. Not a good habit and I know I need to change it.

I remember and  miss the days when the stores were closed on Sunday. You had no choice but to be home because nothing was open. Sure, we'd go to church, but after church we'd go home, change our clothes, maybe watch television together but we'd all end up at the table to share Sunday Dinner.

Caring and sharing. Isn't that what life is about? Hearing about each others victories. Venting frustrations. Seeking guidance for challenges. Celebrating family.

Nowadays the children are busy with sports practices, games, clubs, etc. Times have changed from the days of building forts in the woods and just hanging out. It must be difficult for families to make the time to get everyone at the dinner table at the same time. But hopefully, most of you adults remember some type of dinner time sharing as a child.

How do we really know what's going on in a child's world or in a child's mind if we don't take the time to clear our agenda's and focus on family? And who am I to say? My wife and I don't have children. But we have each other. And I know that we communicate better when we set aside time for each other, over a meal.

So here's my challenge to you. If you can have dinner together every night, great! If you can't, at least schedule one night a week or one meal per weekend where the television is off, play some relaxing music, prepare a meal with contributions in effort from each family member; hold hands for a moment of reflection and prayer. Then, honestly and genuinely ask each person at the table how they are doing, what's on their mind and how the family can help?

Bon Appetit!