Included in my family are my mother, father, two brothers, husband, three children, and so on. We share blood and biology. Yet there are others who I do not share any biology with and yet I consider family.
Most people have a family with whom they can turn to when in need, others simply do not. I am blessed by family members who I do love, trust and can always turn to. I also have a group of family friends as well as friends, gathered from various stages of my life, who are as important and instrumental in life as are my blood relations.
So what makes up a family? I believe it is comprised of those whom you share a bond. It is with the people who you don’t even have to see every day and still are able to slip into a connection with because of shared memories, love and connections.
Growing up we did not have any blood relatives who lived near us and so my parents’ friends and their families became my family. My dad’s best friend passed away last week and I had an instantaneous connection to his grieving family after not having seen them for years. I had grown up with this family, going on vacations, and sharing holidays. Next month I will go on a girls trip with 5 of my high school friends. We call ourselves the Forever Friends (well there was that Pink Ladies name in High School!). We live across the country now, but when we gather, we share a bond that few can imagine. I have sorority sisters who have had my back and I can turn to now in a moment’s notice and they would be available for me. This people are all my family.
We are born into a family but we are able to develop a family on our journey of life as well. Both fill a connection for us. Both give us comfort and a sense of belonging. Cherish them all!
May you find all the family you need along your path!