The Values Of Hard Work, Family Unity, And Frugalness Have...

The values of hard work, family unity, and frugalness have shaped my family’s lifestyle. One of the insecurities I have had in my relationship with my father is feeling like his love was conditional. In nonverbal ways, he would demonstrate to me that I would need to work hard at school, receive great grades, and always be on my best behavior to earn his love. Now, as an adult, I know people should love me solely on who I am as a person. Yet, it has been challenging for me to have this new point of view in my relationships with my family, friends, and God. Despite my challenges in receiving love, I have always appreciated spending time with family. I appreciate little memories, including sitting with my maternal grandfather in his rocking chair even though I was tall, baking cookies with my grandma, or having a Wii bowling tournament with my father’s family. My desire to help people build their families as an adoption or pregnancy counselor derives from the strong sense of family my parents instilled in me. The value of providing for one’s family with meager financial resources has influenced my spending as an adult. My mother rarely purchases an item at the full price. We both use coupons and save money for bigger expenses. This value somewhat contradicts the adoption principle. Some biological parents place their children with families who can better provide for them financially. Even though my passion for adoption differs from my family’s view of providing for one’s own