It's the Little Things

When it comes to family life, the little things matter. In order for the family to be healthy, it's important for each person to contribute, to serve and live for the sake of the other family members. And it’s not just about doing it once - it's doing it consistently.

My best teacher in this area has been my husband, Nathan. Ever since I first met him, I could see he was a hardworking person. But I've also seen that a lot of times, people appear a certain way in public, but we see a different side of them once they're at home - a more laidback side. To be comfortable in one's home environment is natural. But what impressed me about Nathan was that he worked hard regardless of where he was.

Now that we're married, it's something I appreciate so much about him. Although I'm sure he comes home tired from a long day of work, the first thing he does when he comes home is smile at our young son. He understands that when he comes home, it's not just about relaxing. When he comes home, he's a husband and a father. This entire week, since I've been busy at work, after he comes home from work he's been cooking dinner every night for our family. He stays up late washing the dishes, and putting our son to bed.

In a family, these acts of service are so crucial. They may seem simple, because they need to be done daily, but they're not easy to do consistently, especially when you're tired. I thank my husband for being my example of what it means to serve your family, in both the big and small ways. How important that is to build a healthy, happy family. I have much to learn!

-Maruko Breland