Maintaining Good Relationships

Vacations with family or friends can strengthen bonds of love. On the other hand, vacations can cause cracks in a relationship, which may be hard to repair later. Journalist Lance Morrow said: “The real danger of the vacation lies in its capacity to compress all family conflicts into an exquisitely focused drama. . . . People in their normal working lives have jobs, roles, friends and routines to diffuse and absorb emotions. In the theater of a summer house, family issues 20 years buried are liable to come up thrashing like lobsters.”

So before you go on a vacation, consciously resolve to make it a pleasant experience. Remember that interests differ. Children may be seeking adventure, parents probably relaxation. Be willing to forgo personal preferences of what to do and where to go. If advisable and practical, agree to allow each person periodically to pursue what is of particular interest to him. Learn to exercise the qualities of God’s spirit on a daily basis throughout the year, and it should not be unduly difficult to continue doing so during your vacation.—Galatians 5:22, 23.

While maintaining a good relationship with family and friends is important, our relationship with God is even more important. On vacations we often meet people who do not share our Christian view of God and his requirements. Associating closely with them—perhaps even frequenting places of questionable entertainment—can lead to regrettable consequences. Remember that the Bible warns: “Do not be misled. Bad associations spoil useful habits.”—1 Corinthians 15:33.

Keep Relationships Happy

1. Show love and consideration for those with you.

2. Keep standards for personal association high.

3. Do not allow other vacationers to lead you into actions you consider questionable.

4. Set aside some time to fill spiritual needs.