For most of us, our families come first, before all the other important things in life. But does our behavior reflect that belief?  

Although most people would say that nothing is more important than their families, day-to-day behavior can tell another story. As Jennifer James, a former Seattle columnist, once pointed out, "When we're moving fast, sometimes the relationships we care most about get short shrift. We think those we love will forgive us if we spend most of our time on other things. But a child may grow up before we notice that hours of being too busy have extended into days, weeks, months and years." We are seeing evidence of this with children who are publicly "divorcing" their parents. The parents always think there would be time to get back together. But they are wrong.  

James reminds us that, "There are ways to give time and interest to children, family and friends even when every minute seems loaded." For example, you can turn off the TV or put down your newspaper when a loved one is talking to you. Move away from the laptop. Video games can get put aside for a few moments. The simple gesture of looking directly at someone and stopping what you're doing for a few minutes while they're talking says they are important to you.  

With school back in session, our children are being pulled in many directions with after-school activities, homework, friends, instant messaging. Many families don't gather around the table for meals anymore. We need to find alternative, everyday ways to really be with each other, even if it's just for a few minutes at a time, if we're going to stay close and feel like a family.  

What do you think? How do you let your family know on a daily basis that they're important to you?