By Uche Ojula
Today, I reflected on the above title based on what I have seen within families, both strong and broken, and on the quiet lessons passed down from our ancestors.
I always remember the lesson of the bunch of broom, which emphasizes strength in togetherness. Family unity is not sustained by noise or control; it is preserved by values lived daily.
Truth, justice, and love remain the strongest glue that holds a family together across generations. Truth is the first pillar. Where honesty is practiced, trust grows naturally. Scripture reminds us that “the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32).
In a family, truth spoken with wisdom prevents suspicion, crises, misunderstanding, disconnect and silent resentment. It allows issues to be addressed early and hearts to remain open. When we are truthful to eachother, family trust is secured.
Justice and equity follow closely. Family thrives when decisions are guided by fairness and clear principles rather than emotions or convenience. Standing on fairness and justice is refusing to take sides no matter your closeness to either party, material benefits and declaring judgement impartially no matter whose ox is gored.
The Bible teaches that “the Lord loves righteousness and justice” (Psalm 33:5). When everyone knows that standards apply equally, peace replaces rivalry. Order is maintained when due process is respected and matters are handled patiently, not impulsively. Respect is another anchor.
Elders and seniors should be respected, they have experience, and have higher perspective. Honoring them is not old-fashioned; it is foundational. “Honour your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12) is both instruction and protection. Parents should instill this teaching on their children to always respect elders and seniors and they would grow with it and carry on the practice.
Also, healthy boundaries protect dignity and prevent unnecessary friction. Respect must flow upward and downward. (Dey your lane and make I dey my lane. No encroachment.) Love crowns it all. Not selective affection, but steady genuine care that reassures each member of their belongingness.
The Bible says, “Love is patient, love is kind” (1 Corinthians 13:4). This kind of love listens, corrects gently, and remains present in difficult moments. Affection expressed consistently, reminds everyone that the family is a safe place.
When truth guides spoken words and actions, justice shapes decisions, and love expressed daily in the family, unity is no longer forced. It becomes natural, enduring, and worthy of being passed on from generation to generation.
Let’s embrace Unity in our families and ensure the sustenance of the pillars of unity, truth, justice and equal love.
We improve by learning and rise by practicing.
