My youngest son enjoyed his first experience at overnight camp this summer, informing us after his week away that next year he wants to go for two weeks. We even got a letter from him.
“To Mom, Camp is so fun and dinner was good. I am having a lot of fun. Thank you very much for getting me into the camp. From, Daniel. P.S. Tell Lars [our dog] I love him.”
I flipped the card over to see if there was a P.P.S. Nope. Dear old dad didn’t make the cut. Nary a mention. Even the dog got a shout out.
So, how’s your summer going?
I at least found it comforting to know I am not alone. “On Facebook, a friend posted a camp note she received from her daughter: “Dear mom, Hi! First Day, nothing to report yet. Tell me when you get this.” Her husband also did not get a shout out.
Do we know our kids love us? Yes. Would it be nice to be included though? Yes (especially ahead of the dog. I may not be cute and furry, but the dog doesn’t schlep you around to all your summer activities either.) Let’s face it, communication within a family can be tough, not only for the things that we say to one another but also all the things that go unsaid. (And that’s from someone who enjoys a family where “I love you” comes easily.)
It’s why I marvel at families who can work together. It’s one thing to move a bureau with one of my sons and another to think of us running a business together. This may be because I have a teenager and another who is a year away from (shiver) being one (but the attitude transformation has already begun).
It is fascinating to me how some families can lean into those bonds to form successful businesses without wanting to throttle one another daily. How parents can learn to truly respect the talents and insights of the people whose diapers they once changed, and sons and daughters can see their parents as full-fledged human beings with valuable insights. Or the married couple who find ways to keep the romance alive while dealing with the trials and tribulations of a business. Because when those relationships don’t work, high drama can cause a business to implode. And it’s why family business centers at colleges often offer courses called “Managing Conflict in Family Business.”
I just asked my teen how he would feel about working with me, and he replied, “As long as I’m being paid to, sure.” It warms the heart. I can only hope that comes in a Hallmark card on Father’s Day.
So to all the companies on our list of the Top Family-Owned Businesses in this issue, I salute you.
Sincerely,
Matthew J. Mowry
Co-Publisher & Executive Editor
Current Issue - May 2024