My wife and I recently visited some friends. They have a couple of kids and they have a life style that is pretty different from ours. Their approach to parenting is pretty different as well. They push their kids really hard and they are pretty hard on them. Both kids seem to smile through it all, but I was left to wonder a couple of times just how genuine those smiles really were.
One thing I noticed that seemed to be missing in their relationship with their kids was the lack of physical expressions of love. In 4 days with these friends, I never once heard the words "I love you" spoken and not one hug was exchanged. In contrast, my family is very open in our expressions of our feelings. Which approach is better? I guess that all depends in how you measure your "parenting success". I suppose if both of my friend's children grow up to be extremely successful monetarily, then they will think they have done a good job. I have my doubts about how these kids will be as parents and spouses.
What really brings us the biggest joy or sadness? ... our monetary wealth or the relationships that we share with those that are closest to us. My friends are doing quite well in the money department. That's great and I am happy for them. Their family life does not seem nearly as rich. I just couldn't imagine not having a close relationship with my spouse and kids. It would make all the rest seem very hollow and empty.
So, what really is important? ... all the stuff or all your relationships?
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