So, what is a “good family”?

[Anonymous]

I hear it referenced here a lot and I think I know what it means but I’d like some examples. How do we know if we are a good family or how can we make a good family for our children?

[Anonymous]

A family without any drama or messiness
Nuclear family
Educated or skilled
Hygienic
Carry themselves with decorum and honor
Help neighbors/community

[Anonymous]

It’s one of those things that’s defined by what it isn’t.

If you are over 22 and think that Eminem and Rihanna’s song “Love the way you Lie” is not about domestic violence, but about two “perfectly imperfect people who are there for each other,” then you are probably not a “good family.”

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:It’s one of those things that’s defined by what it isn’t.

If you are over 22 and think that Eminem and Rihanna’s song “Love the way you Lie” is not about domestic violence, but about two “perfectly imperfect people who are there for each other,” then you are probably not a “good family.”

What? How is that helpful?

[Anonymous]

Good families don't complain about their new neighbors having an outdoor wedding, for starters.

[Anonymous]

Good family = Still Married
I’m not saying a divorced family is a bad family, it’s just not the utopic poster child ideal version of GOOD family.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:It’s one of those things that’s defined by what it isn’t.

If you are over 22 and think that Eminem and Rihanna’s song “Love the way you Lie” is not about domestic violence, but about two “perfectly imperfect people who are there for each other,” then you are probably not a “good family.”

What? How is that helpful?

What could anyone possibly write that would be helpful?

If things like domestic violence, multiple marriages, parents and kids using marijuana, meth, crack, or OxyContin together, or people going to jail or prison are common in your circle, then you aren’t a “good family.”

Other than that, it varies by degrees.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Good families don't complain about their new neighbors having an outdoor wedding, for starters.

True

[Anonymous]

I know it when I see it

[Anonymous]

Still married or divorce is very amicable
Financially responsible-- whether UMC, MC, or LMC you must live within your means, and by the time you are 60 have no debt other than mortgage
Personable, courteous, easy to be with and never makes a scene, know how to behave in most situations.
No public airing of dirty laundry, yelling, making a scene, suing each other, basically keep it indoors.
Prioritize stability, education, and being a constructive member of society-- find somewhere to volunteer.

Most importantly, absolutely no addiction or criminal record.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Good families don't complain about their new neighbors having an outdoor wedding, for starters.

Its a silly but good example. They ring the bell and ask if they can be of any help.

[Anonymous]

They care about each other and community around them.

[Anonymous]

Basically I interpret it as meaning a family that doesn't bring problems with them, instead a family that is consistently responsible for themselves and helpful to others. My in-laws and my parents could not be more culturally different, but both considers the others a good family because they are supportive, reliable, and don't have any major issues of their own that cause trouble for others. Everyone financially stable, takes care of their own problems, mentally sane (mostly) and would be helpful to me and DH if we truly needed help.

And of course, just basically being nice to people day to day is essential.

[Anonymous]

I think good is a synonym for stable here, physically, emotionally, morally, financially, legally and civically stable families.

[Anonymous]

No drama