More than just getting along with my dad

Originally appeared on spirituality.com

Getting along with others can be a huge challenge. And many of us will agree that some of the knottiest and most heartbreaking conflicts are between parents and their children. Often those conflicts are between people who actually love one another and truly want harmony and peace. They may sometimes believe they can’t stand another moment with that person, yet they may live in the same residence and eat in the same kitchen.

There’s a saying that time heals all wounds. That may be true, but only if time matures thought toward God. Conflicts are caused by pretty deep anger and mortal opinions. Something needs to change our thoughts to more patience and respect, or the conflicts continue.

Sorry to say, I know this from experience. All through junior high and high school, my dad and I had an increasingly intense love/hate relationship. I thought it would mellow when I got away to college. But even years after that, whenever we were together sparks flew. It was bad enough for the two of us, but it was especially hard on my mom.

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