Big or small, nuclear (traditional), single-parent or blended, family is much more than a set of individuals living under the same roof. We can call it a natural social system with its own set of rules, characteristics and properties and a prescribed role for each of its members. The members of a family support one another in good times and bad, which is why it is important to take care of one another, regardless of each one’s stage of life.

Traditionally, we call “family” the related people living under the same roof, especially: father, mother and children. Some families are stimulating, warm and united, while others are colder and more boring; it all depends on these members and the climate that is established and prioritized. The term “family” is most commonly used to describe a blood relationship or a marriage, but for many years now, it has also been used to describe a group of individuals who have a strong bond of belonging to other members of a group. Understanding, communication, trust and love are all part of a family’s upbringing.

“Friends are a family whose members have been chosen.” – Alphonse Karr

The 5 human values of the family

In order to facilitate relationships and to respect the hierarchy or the role of each person within the household or group, five fundamental values are part of raising young and not so young people, making it possible to stick together, through thick and thin:

1. Love: This is expressed through affectionate gestures between family members, shared warmth and good communication.
2. Obedience: This means setting guidelines and limits. Obedience is primarily respect for the authority of the household and the rules. It is easier to develop good habits by example.
3. Tolerance: This means accepting who we are and what others are, understanding the others with their strengths and weaknesses. This value is very important among people who live together.
4. Respect: This involves avoiding hurting others. It is put into practice with tolerance, as we all have a limit that must not be overstepped by others. Respect is often explained by the old saying: ‘We don’t do to others what we wouldn’t like them to do to us!”
5. Responsibility: This means being responsible to the rest of the family, looking after the others and following the concept of giving without necessarily expecting something in return.

Of course, these 5 core values are not the only ones. Honesty, empathy, forgiveness, self-sufficiency and belonging are all values that are important to instill in the family and especially in young children. Being part of a group or a whole that is bigger than oneself brings positivity and emotional well-being, just as humans are always more likely to connect with other individuals who share their values and their views. Humans are social beings and the family, whether biological or not, is their clan, always ready to support each other, regardless of the situation.

In short, when it comes to the death of a family member, it is the survivors who must look after making the arrangements and grieve together. It is often at this time that the family becomes close-knit or is torn apart. At Crématorium Montréal, we are used to helping families—even the most complex ones—with their funeral arrangements. We are here to help you. Contact us!