Family

Summer is always a fun reminder to me about how important family is.  It is always the time that our family travels on a summer trip that we all enjoy.  When I was young and growing up in Minnesota, we spent our summers with family at our lake house.  Our Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins did the same as we had places close by on neighboring lakes, and we all gathered together for many things.  One of the most memorable events was definitely the Fourth Of July.  It didn't matter if you lived near or far; everyone would find the time to take the trip to the Lake for the annual Fourth of July picnic.  Some of the best memories were created here for many generations.  

Family is so important, but not all families are the same.  Some are close, some are separated, some are happy, and some are just trying to figure it out.  But I know for sure that regardless of what family you came from or are a part of, it is essential to know that you can take away some fantastic memories, moments, and learning experiences from all of it.  You will realize that some of the family moments you had will somehow find their way into your current life, and that's all good.

I came from a family of all adopted children.  My parents adopted all five of us as infants at different ages and times.  They were amazing, loving parents who decided that they would bring children into their homes and love them unconditionally.  Fortunately, they raised us in an environment of love and acceptance.  They always opened their arms and home to our friends and others, so we also learned how to appreciate and love everyone.

Every family is different, and we must appreciate and try to understand the dynamics of each and every one of them.  If one of my daughter's friends has a family going through something, we will make a point to fill that void wherever we can.  We will always include every friend in all activities no matter what, so they feel a part of our family.  

One of the family's biggest takeaways is that it binds you together.  Even if the circumstances are not ideal, It entwines you into a web of caring, nurturing, unconditional love, and protection.   It's essential to grasp the truly unique concept of family.  Whether it is those we came from or those we created, we all have the same ideals of commitment.  Love unconditionally, accept one another for who we are, forgive the shortcomings, and don't worry about the rest.  At the end of the day, we will still be family.

My affirmation for you this week is;

"I will embrace and appreciate what the concept of family has taught me through the years."