Short messages on Family issues and relationships from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
Before you react to something your sibling has said or done, take a deep breath and think about the situation. Maybe you’re angry at your sibling or frustrated by a bigger underlying issue.
Although it might feel impossible sometimes, many siblings grow up to be close friends. It might take years and a lot of maturing before this happens, but in the meantime there are steps you can take to avoid fighting with your sibling and smooth out your relationship.
“It’s not our job to toughen our children up to face a cruel and heartless world. It’s our job to raise children who will make the world a little less cruel and heartless.” – L.R. Knost
It’s not rude or unreasonable to ask for, or give, basic respect. People should treat you and your boundaries with some level of respect, just as you should treat them with the same.
Supporting, guiding, and making contributions to other people is one of life’s greatest rewards.
Treat everyone with the same level of respect you would give to your grandfather and the same level of patience you would have with your baby brother.
Surviving pets can experience loss when a pet dies, or may become distressed by your sorrow. Maintaining their daily routines, or increasing exercise and play times, will benefit them and may help to elevate your outlook too.
Preparing a memorial, planting a tree in memory of your pet, or compiling a photo album or scrapbook, can create a legacy to celebrate the life of your pet.
A funeral can help you and your family members openly express your feelings for a lost pet. Ignore people who think it’s inappropriate to hold a funeral for a pet, and do what feels right for you.
When you’re grieving, don’t let anyone tell you how to feel. Your grief is your own, and no-one else can tell you when it’s time to “move on” or “get over it.” Let yourself feel whatever you feel without embarrassment or judgment.