Americans have a reputation for being industrious. Many of us descend from generations of diligent workers, and this trait is deeply ingrained in our culture, which is commendable. However, our strong work ethic can sometimes lead us to overlook the importance of rest and relaxation. Last year, Americans gave up an astonishing 236 million vacation days, with fifty-five percent not utilizing their full vacation entitlement.
It’s understandable that sometimes we feel we can’t afford a vacation, or there’s so much work that taking time off isn’t feasible.
Yet, in our fast-paced world, it often feels like each family member is moving in a different direction. Post school and work, there are sports practices, games, and arts lessons to attend. Additionally, homework and school projects await completion. We head to work, complete our chores, and hastily eat dinner. Afterwards, we put the children to bed, only to repeat the same routine the following day.
This is why family vacations are so precious. They offer a unique opportunity to spend quality time with our children.
Cheap doesn’t mean boring
For several years when our children were young, we made it a tradition to go camping each summer. It wasn’t just our fondness for camping that drew us, though we certainly took pleasure in it. The decision was largely influenced by its affordability for our young family at that time.
We owned an old blue pickup truck, which we would pack with tents, bicycles, sleeping bags, and cooking gear. Then we would set off to Fall Creek Falls or another state park for the week.
We loved having our four children all to ourselves without the distractions of TV, radio, or video games. Thankfully, there were no cell phones back then! We’d go for long bike rides during the day, hike through the woods, or swim at the pool. At night we’d sit around the campfire and talk enjoying each other’s company.
The next morning, the air was filled with the pleasant aroma of bacon cooking on our open fire. We’d fill our tummies with plenty of it along with fried potatoes and eggs. It seemed everything tasted better cooked over an open fire in the woods!
Even today, these simple, inexpensive vacations are some of our fondest memories.
Moving up
As our vacation budget grew, we began spending a week at the beach every summer. We would reserve a beachfront condo, and the children would fill their days with wave riding, sandcastle building, and pool swimming. In the evenings, we’d cook a wholesome yet simple meal and spend quality time together, either playing card games or enjoying a movie.
Many times, we would join with some of our extended family which made it even more fun.
Redeeming Time
Time is one of our most valuable assets. We soon realize that the days of little ones frolicking in the beach sand or cuddling with us by a campfire are fleeting. Before we know it, they have grown up and have children of their own.
Naturally, we want our children to grow up. After all, the goal of every parent is to raise them into responsible adults.
Thankfully, we’ve had the opportunity to take family vacations with our grown children and grandchildren as well.
Children love family time
The belief that only adults cherish quality time with their children and grandchildren is a misconception. In fact, the little ones often enjoy these moments just as much, if not more, than the adults do.
Recently, we went on a cruise with my son, his wife, and their two children, aged 12 and 14. The ship was a boy’s paradise, complete with water slides, zip lines, and swimming pools, not to mention a Flo-rider for simulated surfing. They indulged in the ship’s entertaining offerings throughout the day. However, when I inquired about the highlight of the cruise from my 12-year-old grandson, his response was, “The best part was everyone sitting together at the dinner table each night.”
Our children love being together with family more than we think.
Educational trips
Vacations serve not just for creating memories but also have an educational aspect. Visits to historical cities like Boston can be exhilarating and provide a hands-on way for young people to learn about our history. Similarly, national parks offer lessons about nature while allowing families to spend quality time together.
As a young person I had the opportunity to visit Israel. Walking the steps of Jesus and visiting the places that I’d read about in the Bible, caused that Bible to come alive.
Similarly, walking the Freedom Trail in Boston and visiting landmarks such as Paul Revere’s house and the Old North Church has illuminated the American Revolution more than any textbook ever could.
Just go!
I have a personal fondness for travel. Exploring new places and experiencing diverse cultures is thrilling to me. The joy and excitement of travel are even greater when shared with family or friends.
Whether it’s a journey across the globe to immerse in a different culture or a short trip to the local campground for a peaceful weekend by the lake, the benefits are identical. You’ll cherish the quality time spent with family and forge memories that last a lifetime. The experience will be unforgettable, and the time invested will be without regret.
The spiritual aspect
The Bible guides us to instill Biblical values in our children during daily activities: when we sit at home, walk along the path, lie down, and rise up (Deuteronomy 11:19). Travel presents a wonderful opportunity to impart these values while walking through nature, sitting by the ocean’s edge, or fishing in a lake or stream. Don’t let them slip by.
For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1 ,,, Also, that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy good in all his labor, is the gift of God. -Ecclesiastes 3:13
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