27 Jan 2013 by Natasha Kim-
After a break, the second part of the Heritage Builders Seminar began. This time, Mr. Joshua Liong went onstage to talk about Family Fragrance which consists of, Affection, Respect, Order, Merriment, and Affirmation (AROMA).
Deuteronomy 6:6-9 : 6 These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. 7 Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. 8 Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. 9 Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
He then explained about the acronym AROMA, starting with Affection. Affection means building closeness with your children and giving them a strong sense of acceptance and identity. As parents, telling them that you love them is not enough. Parents need to show their children love by giving them a back rub, patting them on the shoulder or giving them a warm kiss. Another good example would be calling them by an affectionate name, or listening to their hurts and pain without trying to solve their problem.
Genesis 27:21: Then Isaac said to Jacob, "Come near so I can touch you, my son, to know whether you really are my son Esau or not."
Respect is also an important factor. In this case, Joshua addressed that there are in fact two types of respect that should be reinforced. The first is “Entitled Respect”, which is commanded due to a person’s position.
Ephesians 6:2: 2 “Honor your father and mother”
Then there is “Earned Respect” which comes from what we do. This respect can be gained through labour, our services to others, and our performance within our family unit. When fostered at home, it will have a dramatic effect on all three areas –spiritual, emotional, and social– of the heritage.
Of course, Joshua then addressed that every family like any other institution or organization, need “Order” to be effective in passing on a strong heritage. Family rules are essential and it must be defined together as a family. And once defined, it should be followed through and have its due consequences when the rules are broken. The key here is to also ensure that everyone has their rights; for example, the right to be listened to, the right to voice an opinion, and the right to express concern about how they are being treated. Children should have these rights as well to foster a spirit of mutual respect and trust at home.
The next important factor is “Merriment.” He said, “A healthy dose of merriment in the home is good medicine.” In this case, we all need to lighten up and have fun! A home is not an office! More than any other place, a home should be a place of fun and laughter which will draw the family together. Here, parents must plan ahead so that nothing will put you in a grumpy mood.
Proverbs 17:22: A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
Last but not least, another factor that should be implemented in every home is “Affirmation”. According to Joshua Liong, we can do this by saying affirmative statements such as, “you can be everything you want to be. I know you will give your best!” or “I’m proud of you and I trust in you.” Parents need to declare with enthusiasm of their child’s identity.
Proverbs 12:18: The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
Proverbs 15:4: The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
“At the end of the day, traditions are the bearings that glide from generation to generation” said Joshua. The practice of traditions gives our children stability, dependability, and many great memories. An example of certain traditions that are set by families are namely celebrating birthdays, celebrating big or small events, or even made – up silly events. Parents can even bring up an old picture album and flip through them with their children. Another thing that parents should do is to refine their family creed. In this case, parents must make sure what their child believes in and why. They must solidify the child’s believes about God, truth, the meaning of life and other issues that are important.
Dear Viewers in Christ, if you find this article edifying to you, please share with your friends or loved ones by using the social media plugs (Share, Email to this article). The Lord will surely bless you as you bless others. May the Lord’s peace and love be with you. Amen.
References for pictures:
http://www.lifevesting.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/loving-father.jpg
http://www.chinasocialgames.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/family-friendly.jpg
http://www.accschinese.com/accsblog/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/2010-04-05-ChineseChildren.jpg
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