thank goodness for boundaries...

There are different types of relationships within the family unit and different kinds of boundaries.  One kind is a clear boundary, where things between mom and dad stay between them and the kids aren't apart of the decision-making process.  Then there's rigid boundaries where the parents can't talk about anything, they make decisions on their own and kids are definitely aware of the tension.  And finally there's diffuse boundaries, which aren't really boundaries at all.  This is when parents fight with each other about things and vent to the kids, or any other party about each other.  Think about your family.  Are there more than one kind of boundary going on?  Most cases, the answer to this question will be yes.  When I think of my family, there are definite clear boundaries with my parents, but when it comes to grandparents and some siblings, diffused boundaries come into play and our family can get a whole lot closer, and not necessarily in a good way.  This is where a whole lot of family drama can come into play.  Everyone loves some good wholesome drama, right?  (not me, but some people really thrive off that! weird...)  Next time family contentions arise, think about the boundaries that are in place in your family, they'll probably be to blame!