A comedy (in literature) is amusing--and has a cheerful and successful ending.  It has a happy conclusion--not because everything was perfect, but because there is a triumph over unpleasant circumstances.

A tragedy happens when the main character is brought to ruin--or suffers extreme sorrow--as a consequence of a tragic flaw, moral weakness, or inability to cope with unfavorable circumstances.

The common theme in both story lines is unpleasant or unfavorable circumstances.

The determining factor--between a cheerful and successful vacation--is not perfect circumstances or perfectly met expectations.  It's the way we respond to chaos when it happens--because it will.

Join us on this new episode--and enjoy Doug's great sense of humor. lol! 

We'll share these key TAKE AWAYS to help you find great fun in your family vacation:

• Family vacations are simply a time period when everything that's real about relationships in your family gets magnified.  What if this summer's vacation magnifies a better way to respond to chaos?
• Our dream is often that vacation will be an escape from reality, but reality always goes with us.  What is often real isn't always true.  What if the truth your family experiences on vacation this year is that each of you really care about each other?
• Perfection isn't the goal.  Reconnection is the goal.  Reconnecting doesn't mean problems aren't real and feelings aren't hurt.  Reconnecting means I care about you--and the problems aren't going to come between us in relationship.

 

Follow this link to listen now--and to subscribe.  Thank you for sharing it with your friends.  Maybe you're going on a "Girl's Vacation" or a "Guy Trip."  The ideas in this episode can help ensure your time together is a comedy--instead of a tragedy.

We mention these books in this episode:

Magnolia Table:  A Collection of Recipes For Gathering

https://smile.amazon.com/Magnolia-Table-Collection-Recipes-Gathering/dp/006282015X/

The Cure & Parents

https://smile.amazon.com/Cure-Parents-Bill-Thrall/dp/1934104094/

Education by Design, Not Default--How Brave Love Creates Real Learning

https://smile.amazon.com/Education-Design-Not-Default-Fearless/dp/057840835X/

 

Together, there is great hope.