Lately I've been thinking about what type of attributes create a family. This is a complicated one for me and always has been.
I've never been really close with most of my extended family. I have a handful of really great aunts and uncles, a few cousins that mean the world to me and of coarse grandparents.
With my family starting to grow up and get married I beg to ask the question, "What makes a family?". This is a good one huh? I've had some experiences on both sides of the family where I feel more connected with some then others. But what create the bond? Time spent with that person or how they 'click' into your family. I think overall the main characteristics of a family are the following:
1. Forgiveness
2. Unconditional Love
3. Being able to relate to each other
4. Time spent together
5. Communication
Forgiveness is a a major part of my new family and my extended family. I seem to be asking for forgiveness rather than forgiving lately. Without forgiveness grudges are made and the family cannot grow closer together.
I have unconditional love for Rayder when he smacks me in the face, as well as the rest of my extended family. What it really boils down to is being able to genuinely love someone even though you may not necessarily like them at the moment. Case and point, my relationship with my brother Austin. I may not have always liked him growing up but I always loved him and always will.
The ability to relate to each other crosses into being capable of empathy. If you are unable to relate to each other it makes it extremely hard to communicate (my number 5).
Time spent together is extremely important to a family bond. It allows you to create memories and inside jokes. :)
Communication is last on my list but it really should be first. If you feel you cannot express your feelings to your family you are unable to create a close relationship.
So now that I've wasted time explaining what I think are the key points to creating a family I've been thinking a lot lately about the word itself. Family originally refers to a blood relation. But really...who doesn't have a friend or two that is part of your family? I have a couple of friends who I love dearly and would do anything for.
Anyway there's my self-therapy session for the day. Have a great night!