Meet the Family.

Family, what can one say about family. When most people think of the word family, they think of people related to them. They think of sister, brothers, parents, children, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. However, what does this word really mean anymore? How do we perceive the meaning of the word ‘family’ these days? For many, we think of friends who have been there for us through thick and thin; we think of others who have been our peers and mentors through rigorous trainings and hard tests; we think of group or gang members; we think of people we need to protect and hold close to us. However, for myself, the meaning of family has completely started vanishing, if it hasn’t already.

When I think of family, I think of people who care more about themselves than the likelihood of anyone else. I think of people who would rather lie to your face than spend time with you. I think of people who wouldn’t want to spend more than a couple hours with you unless they need it. You see, all my life I’ve been living away from my extended family (grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins). I never got to go see them once a year like many people do and they never really came to see us. When it comes to them, I tend to get a little steamed and annoyed. I’d honestly not even talk to my family, but ignore them as if they aren’t even there.

If I did, I wouldn’t have to worry about them missing birthdays or weddings. I wouldn’t have to worry about all the drama about Christmas and Thanksgiving. I wouldn’t have to think about all the “family gatherings” I’ve missed over the years, and all the pictures they send to try and “make us feel better.” I don’t think a family should be like that.

In my mind, a family should be made up of people who care for you, of people who would risk something to help you, and you’d do the same for them in return. A true family member would be there for you to talk to, for support and encouragement when you need it. They’d be able to tell you that you’re being stupid, or that what you’re doing could really make a difference. They’d be there for you no matter what. Mess with my family, and I’ll kick you in your throat. Just saying.

So, to my extended “family”: You’re related to me only by blood, but it’s through loving words and caring thoughts and expressions that you’ll really be my true family. Initiatives need to be taken. Right now, I could care less whether you came to my wedding or remembered to send me a birthday card, or even remembered my graduation.

So, I guess here’s something to ponder: What does family mean to you, and who are your true family?

My family is made up of the people I see every day. The people I smile to when I get into school, or when I get home. The people who listen to me bitch and moan about a hard day, or something that’s gone wrong that I need help to fix. They people who know how to make me laugh and know all the things that can cheer me up, like a certain song I love or just by making me watch a hilarious youtube video. So, here’s to you, ma famille. I love you guys. Everyone on this page is a part of my family, and I love you all to death and back again. :]