Calendar Books by Allen James - Daily Reading - "The Journey: A Calendar Book"

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Calendar Books by Allen James reading for October 15th, from "The Journey: A Calendar Book",

"Keep in contact with your siblings".

Today's reading can be a difficult task, but all in all it is an important tool in striving for personal success and cultivates a positive lifestyle. Growing up and leaving home is one of those difficult realities of life. When siblings go away to college, begin his/her career or get married, quite often there is distance between them and adjustments have to be made.

Families come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and ethnicity. They are as well the starting point from where we gain social skills. As well, the degree to which we maintain those relationships throughout our adult lives is a determining factor in our satisfaction with personal success.

Coming from a large family (5 boys and 2 girls, all within 10 years of each other), undoubtedly there are varying types of relationships with each; I am very close with my oldest brother, number 1, and either visit three or four times a year or talk to on the phone every couple of weeks; my next to the oldest brother (number 2) and I have worked to build a closer relationship over the past 10 years as entered the Navy at the age of 18 when I was only 9, my oldest sister (sibling number 3) and I have a very close relationship, she's my best friend and supporter. I was very close as well with number four when I was younger (she passed away when she was 34 and I was 29). Number 5 and number 6, although the closest in age, have the most challenging relationships, due more than likely to the competitive nature of siblings so close in age and my being the "baby" of the family.

Yet they are each special to me in their own ways. Through the years I have attempted to keep close even though miles separate us. Luckily there are many ways you can stay in close touch with your siblings to maintain the close relationship you grew up having together.

Technology is amazing for supporting and strengthening sibling relationships. All that is needed is a bit of effort.

-Telephone/Cell phone

Today, you can reach your sibling any time, any day. With the convenience of the cell phone, “reaching out to touch someone” has never been easier. Most carry his/her cell phone on their person at all times and even if unable to answer a call, could receive a voice mail or a text. The communication opportunities are available and a simple way to stay in contact. Talking on the phone and hearing the voice of your sibling is a great comfort.

If there is more than one sibling, a three way call is a great way to share big news with the siblings at the same time. Catching up with one another at the same time helps keep the bond close and in these busy days, helps saves time as well.

Siblings have a great intuition for one another and hearing his/her voice can reveal in the tone if there is stress going on. This can give the sibling an opportunity to encourage conversation and offer support.

-Email

This form of contact is a wonderful way to stay in touch. While not as personal as a phone conversation, a great way to share everyday events, make plans for a get together and share photos. Email is also terrific as it can be opened and responded to at the convenience of the receiver.

If staying in touch with more than one sibling, emails can be sent and forwarded and this helps to keep everyone in the circle of good communication

-Skype

Skype is one of the most exciting ways to stay in touch with family. It is free to join and allows you to talk to your sibling and see their sweet face at the same time. You can group Skype if you choose to speak to more than one sibling at a time. . All you need is a webcam and most computers have one built in. If not, they are reasonably purchased.

Skype is a way to share the joy of a new niece or nephew with your sibling. This new technology allows the most exciting form of communication, especially when distance is an issue. To be able to see your sibling; share with them a live shot of the new puppy or simply show them your new hair style, brings you closer together.

-Plan time together

Make the effort to get together as often as possible. Sharing time together creates new memories and offers a great time to reminisce about the good old days. Take turns making the plans and hosting the gathering. You can make dinner arrangements or plan a vacation together. Be creative and if possible, spontaneous.

Cards/Letters

Everyone enjoys a personal, handwritten card from time to time. Remembering his/her birthday or anniversary shows you care and want to remind them of the importance of your relationship.

There are many possibilities to stay in close, personal touch with your adult sibling. Your relationships are based on a history full of good times and most likely, a few bad times as well. Continue to build the bond between you and your siblings. Make the effort and your lives will be forever connected.

Keep in contact with your siblings...and keep looking up. AJ