The joint family provides an ideal training ground for community living and in the science of human relationship. But how many of us actually realise its importance? How many of us actually know its functioning? It is no less than running a government....
Man management
To run it, is like managing a little kingdom with an unwritten constitution. Where so many people of diverse tastes , habits and temperament are co-oped up day and night, from week to week, months to months and year to year. It requires more than just diplomatic skills, delicacy and tact especially on the parts of the women in the families to maintain a healthy and pleasant atmosphere.
The other members (children, sons, daughters) for their part have to develop an attitude of mutual helpfulness and regard, the capacity for give and take, and adjustment to one another's idiosyncrasies. A single tactless remark, a slip or an oversight, or disregard of another's feelings may set a person's nerves on edge and make life hell for the whole family. Competition in this narrow world is keen — even the youngsters feel the edge of it —Little things assume big proportions —the slightest suggestion of unfairness or partiality gives rise to petty rivalries, jealousies and intrigues. To calm them requires infinite patience, resourcefulness and knowledge of human nature.
Delicate and conscientious care of everyday life or its lack can make in the narrow confines of the joint family all the difference between peace and discontent, happiness and misery. Can we not as members of the joint family though in different colleges and far off places, set things right by showing meticulous regard for detailed perfection in the performance?
