I grew up in a blended family--his, hers, ours, and who knows whose (4 of us are adopted). There was a lot of bickering and fighting as people adjusted to being all together. I remember a family home evening lesson my step-mother gave on speaking kindly. She shared the scripture from Proverbs, 'A soft answer turneth away wrath; but grievous words stir up anger.' Then she showed us a long piece of fabric that she had made to have a pocket for each member of our family. There was one extra pocket that held slips of paper and pencils. We each wrote an 'appreciation note' to every member of the family. We were supposed to write at least one note each day for some period of time (can't remember how long). In my memory that was a real turning point for our family. I'm sure we still bickered and argued, but I have the greatest regard for each of my siblings and I cherish my childhood memories. I think that is partly because of the blessing it was to me to recognize the good in my siblings and to have them point out good qualities in me.
Dana
