The holiday season has finally arrived, and we are a week away from a new (and hopefully better) year. With last year’s celebrations a bit bleak (and this year, too), I’ve been reflecting over the last few months about family. I think due to the pandemic, a lot of people have also reprioritized what they value.
In fact, according to the Pew Research Center, when they asked nearly 19,000 adults across 17 advanced economies the meaning of life and what they valued – “Family” was the top answer.
“In 14 of the 17 advanced economies surveyed, more mention their family as a source of meaning in their lives than any other factor,” according to the study. “Highlighting their relationships with parents, siblings, children and grandchildren, people frequently mention quality time spent with their kinfolk, the pride they get from the accomplishments of their relatives, and even the desire to live a life that leaves an improved world for their offspring.”
In the U.S., the top values chosen were “Family,” the first choice, followed by “Friends,” “Material well-being,” “Occupation” and “Faith.”
Have you thought about what you value the most? Also, maybe it’s the time of year where we can think about other people’s values, too.
Also, I think we have to support our communities, especially the arts, museums and local attractions that have been hit hard by the pandemic.
With family coming first, I have to let you know that a big part of mine is the Northeast Ohio Parent editorial and design team, which consists of staff and freelancers. These colleagues of mine deserve recognition for their hard work – and they got it with many awards this year, including last month, when the team received eight Parent Media Association national awards.
We want to thank you, too, readers. I’ve seen many of your faces at events or on social media. The support you have provided has truly made a difference.
In 2022, I want to make sure we are touching on issues you think are important. Feel free to email me your ideas at [email protected]. I know for you, family comes first, too. We want to make sure that we are providing resources that help you and yours.
See you next year!
A portion of this column was printed in the December 2021 issue of Northeast Ohio Parent magazine.