Family Spirit: A Motto

We've got spirit, yes we do! We've got spirit, how 'bout you!?

I'm sure you've heard of having team spirit and school spirit, but what about family spirit!?  With Kyria on the way, Skyler and I have been inspired to think about ways we can promote family love, unity, encouragement, and fun as our homestead continues to bLoSsOm with children! 

Children and adults alike find motivation in being part of something bigger than themselves!  Nearly everyone is a fan . . . perhaps for a sports team, musical artist, celebrity, etc. etc.  We have all been wired for community! Of course, first and foremost we want our children to embrace their role in the Kingdom of God!  After that, we pray every member of our family will know they play an integral part and are an asset to the team . . . Team Powers!

In order to promote this kind of family unity, Skyler and I have decided to get some things rolling prior to Kyria's arrival! Skyler actually started this process before we were ever married!  We already have a family motto, as well as a family crest!  In addition to these, we are excited about thinking through and creating a family mission statement, family traditions, family catechisms, and perhaps a long-term generational plan that will encourage our family for years to come!

So let's start with our family motto:

All For God (AFG) has been my husbands personal charge since he was in Jr. High.  As he is the leader of our home, it is only appropriate that we would adopt this motto for our family. This motto encompasses so much, and it encourages and reminds us that EVERY area of our life (family, home, work, play, relationships, education, talents, abilities, fitness, etc.) is for His glory! The phrase comes from the following Bible verses:

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." 
~ 1 Corinthians 10:31

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." ~ Colossians 3:17 

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart
   and lean not on your own understanding;
 in all your ways submit to him,
   and he will make your paths straight.  Do not be wise in your own eyes;
   fear the LORD and shun evil." ~ Proverbs 3:5-7

One way Skyler and I currently use this motto is when we close a letter or sign our name.  It is a reminder, not only to us, but also to those we communicate with, of what our family stands for. 

Another fun way we use this family motto is by creating a logo:

Skyler came up with this design a few years back for the polo's his groomsmen wore in our wedding.  Since then, he has had several custom shirts made with this logo!  It is fun to wear our family motto as opposed to buying a name brand shirt,and voting to support what that particular company stands for.  This logo can also be found around our house! Whether it's printed on our egg cartons, stamped on our weekly menu plan, or written on chalkboard, it is a constant reminder of what are family is all about!

Finally, we created a handshake/pound that includes chanting, "A.F.G, Huh!"  :)  I know!  We are silly, and slightly ridiculous, but our kids will LOVE it! 

So are you ready to create your own family motto!?

Here are a few suggestions . . .

- Make the motto meaningful to your family.  Think about your favorite Bible verses.  In fact, if you haven't already, come up with at least three verses that you feel are especially meaningful to your family.   Do you see a repetitive theme? 
- Your motto should be brief; no more than one line.  We will talk more about this in a future post, but perhaps your motto can be a phrase from your mission statement!  The family motto should be similar to a rallying cry or chant that can be used as a quick reminder!
- Do you have an artist in the family?  Have him or her design a special logo for your motto!  If no one in your family has a flair for art, perhaps you could ask a friend or extended family member to create something for you!  Remember, the logo can be incredibly simple!
- Finally, be creative and have fun!  Get the whole family involved, and see what kind of ideas everyone can come up with! Skyler and I like using the "team" analogy for our family (hence the sporty logo, chant, etc.)!  We have known other families that have use "tribe", "clan", "dynasty", etc.  Use whatever suits your family best, and incorporate your motto/logo to fit whatever you choose!!

Do you have a family motto?  Are you going to create one!?  I would love to hear your thoughts and ideas!