Spring is often seen as a time of new beginnings—a season when nature comes back to life after the cold, quiet months of winter. Trees bloom, flowers push through the soil, and the days grow longer, offering a sense of optimism and renewal. Just as the world around us transforms, so too can we—individually, and as families.
Our families, much like the seasons, go through cycles of change, growth, and renewal. They are a constant source of support, a place where we learn important values and lessons that shape who we become. As we “spring forward” into this season of growth, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the values that hold us together and the lessons we have learned that help us move forward in life, stronger and more connected than before.
When we think about family values and how society functions these days, we may be tempted to assume we are drastically different from past generations.The fact is, family values then and now are crucial for shaping individual character, behaviors, and society as a whole. The world may look very different than how I grew up but regardless of social media and digital communication there is still a deep need for connection within families.
Spring is the perfect metaphor for reflecting on past experiences, learning from them, and moving forward stronger as a family. It is a time of renewal, growth, and fresh starts. Although family relationships and values evolve and grow over time– children grow, relationships change, and new challenges arise– a strong foundation is key. Growing up in my home there was a focus on adventure and fun with a healthy mix of respect and discipline. I was taught to honor my mother and father which cultivated a wonderful environment for our family. The beliefs, morals, and standards passed down from my parents influenced my parenting styles. When a family’s foundation is unconditional love and emotional support, they are able to thrive. This perpetuates a safe, healthy climate for future family members.
Every culture has their own belief and value systems but across the board, actions, role modeling, and shared experiences help instill respect and healthy personal development.The skills I learned from my family relationships such as communication, problem-solving, and empathy, have carried over into my friendships, romantic relationships, and professional relationships. My parents always emphasized the importance of spending quality time together and open communication. My husband and I agreed these values are important so we established them early on and modeled by example with our son.
Family values are the guiding principles that help shape a household’s atmosphere and provide a sense of purpose. Whether through small acts of kindness, open communication, or providing emotional support, core family values are often learned early in life and carried with us as we grow.
For many of us, our families are the first place we experience love, compassion, and respect—qualities that form the foundation of a fulfilling life. It is in the family home that we learn what it means to care for others, support one another, and stay connected, even when life gets difficult. These values don’t just stay within the walls of our homes; they ripple out and influence our relationships, careers, and communities.
One of the most important values I’ve learned from my own family is resilience. I have watched my parents handle challenges with grace, never letting difficulties define them. They taught me that setbacks are terrific opportunities for growth—something that has stayed with me throughout my life and that I have passed onto my son. One lesson I hold dear is the value of gratitude. My grandmother, who lived through tough times, always found reasons to be thankful. Whether for a home-cooked meal or the presence of loved ones around the table, she taught me that gratitude isn’t just about big moments but about appreciating the everyday blessings. This simple lesson has helped me navigate life with a sense of appreciation and joy.
As children grow older, parents evolve, and relationships shift, it’s easy to feel that the bonds we once knew are changing in ways we didn’t expect. But with change comes opportunity. Embracing these changes, while still holding on to the core values that define us, allows families to grow stronger. A child’s first steps may seem small, but they’re the beginning of a larger journey, just like the first blooms of spring. Family dynamics evolve, but the essence of togetherness, love, and mutual respect remains constant. ❦

About the Author

Susie Vybiral is the Founder and CEO of Room Redux, a national nonprofit organization. Room Redux transforms the rooms and lives of children who have faced physical and/or sexual abuse. Room Transformations give children a fresh start, while changing the trajectory of their lives and breaking the cycles of abuse.
Susie is currently a doctoral candidate working toward her PsyD. She was also awarded an Honorary Doctorate (Psychology) by UNRS. Susie holds the prestigious honor of being the L’Oreal Paris Women of Worth 2022 National Honoree and was also recognized as one of the San Antonio Business Journal’s Top Women in Business.
Susie has been a contributing writer for local publications and has served as a guest speaker for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, child protective service organizations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and law enforcement and taskforce conferences. She serves as an Ambassador for the 70/30 Wave Trust based in the UK and is proud to be an Advisory Board member for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children as well as a member of Texas Women for Children.
These positions and experiences are all powerful forces when it comes to Susie’s expertise regarding child abuse victims and the importance of changing their environment in order to help them heal and to break the cycle of abuse.

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