Family Values: Put a Handle on It

Family values in today's world and economy may seem different than they were during my grandfather's childhood, but they should be the same. People do not seem to want to spend as much time with their families today as they did fifty years ago. What are family values and why should they remain the same through the test of time?

I can recall going on a fishing trip with my grandfather when I was about twelve years old. We fished almost all day, and ate a sack lunch. As usual my grandfather caught more fish than I, but when we returned home my grandfather was bragging to everyone about how I caught more fish and how good of a fisherman I was. He gave me compliments to build up my self-esteem and to make me feel good about myself. It was not about who caught the most fish, but about spending time with his family and teaching me proper ethics and manners. This is what my grandfather was concerned about. I only wish that I could have had lots more fishing trips with my grandpa before he passed away.

Thinking back at home during my childhood, I can remember how my parents stressed to me, to always respect my elders, and to always say "yes mam" or "yes sir" to people who were older than I. Whenever I would forget to say "yes mam" or "yes sir" to one of my elders, my mother would say "put a handle on it", and I would know that I needed to say "mam, or sir". I had a very enjoyable childhood. I lived with a very loving mother, father, and grandfather. There was not a nicer man anywhere else than my grandfather. He would give the shirt off of his back to help a total stranger. This is another example of doing good deeds and helping people, just because it is the right thing to do.

As I have gotten older those values that I learned during my childhood have stuck with me during my young adult life, When I am talking with someone who is older than I, I still remember to "put a handle on it" today. In the world we live in today, if more people would show respect and compassion, maybe the world would become a better place for everyone.

Today, most people seem to forget there manners and respect for others. All is on the internet and the news is robbery, murder, rape, and violence against others. If people in the world would simply use the morals and manners that our grandparents had, the world would be a totally different place.