Week Two: Trends

This week it was interesting to learn about some interesting trends. Some that stuck out to me were increasing divorce rates, drop in social activities, drop in social time with extend families, increasing numbers of people living alone, and increasing numbers of mothers that work. I think all of these things are sad and that as they continue we are loosing something.
Since I have divorced parents I know, from a kids perspective, what it's like. It's not fun or easy. Even now that I am out of the house and married it can be tough. I feel like I have to chose between them sometimes and I don't like that. What I find interesting is that people haven't proven to be happier after a divorce. In fact, those who stuck with marriage could be found happier a few years later. Also, those who divorced don't tend to be as happy as people who stay married (even though they aren't getting along.) I wish people could realize the importance of marriage and work harder to make it work. I know it is worth it to do this and will save many people from heartache.
My extended family on my mom's side has been such a blessing in my life. They helped us so much and I am so grateful for them. I look up to the wonderful examples they set. Knowing what a gift an extended family can be, I feel sorry for people who don't get to know theirs.
Despite being divorced my mother wanted to be their for us and raise us instead of send us to daycare. So, she created a home daycare so that she could stay at home with us and still work and earn money to support us. I was very grateful for this. I loved having my mother their for me. Knowing that many kids have working mothers is a saddening thought. Those mothers are missing time with their children that they can never gain back. If only they would realize what a blessing it could be for them to stay home with their children.