Family Matters, Bonds for life

Let's take a look at the word Family; the Webster dictionary defines family as a 1. household 2. parents and their children 3. relatives 4. all those descended from a common ancestor; lineage 5. a group of similar or related things. Now, bare with me for a bit and I will try and bring this together and show you another view on how you can look at family or what you may want to call family!

We really don't pick our family, this is something we are born into. It is a birth right and frankly some of us got a pretty raw deal. Now, even though we can't choose our family's, we most certainly can choose who we allow in our very close circle of what we call family!

Now, here is my version of family, people who you enjoy being in their company and know when you need them they are there for you. Opinions matter and advice is not to be looked upon as criticism. Conversation is a pleasure and there may be times when you will have to agree to disagree! Always, age is respected and give credit where credit is due. Age doesn't necessarily mean you have all the answerer's, it just means you may have learned a thing or two over the course of your life, hindsight is 20/20. In fact you may even learn a thing or two by engaging in healthy conversing.

If your biological or blended family make you upset or feel less than welcome, I say you need to step back and evaluate the situation. Unhappy feelings can lead to anger and depression, which is a vicious cycle. Now you have an unhealthy environment leaving your emotions in defence mode, and ultimately in a bad situation! If you have grandchildren never allow yourself to be emotionally blackmailed by your adult children. This can be an ugly situation and heartbreaking! Grand children should never suffer for adult problems.

Here's a solution that I personally have incorporated into my life. Who's to say there isn't a bright side to this story; if you have a circle of close friends or loved ones you have bonded with, then this can be your extended family, no matter how it may make others feel, it's your life that counts. This is especially true for older people who's children have forgotten about them or moved away. Your happiness and health are at stake and we all know when you feel loved you are more loving and basically this equals health and happiness! There are many experts that would agree, close bonds lengthen your life by boosting the immune system. Remember, you may also know someone that is in this very situation and if you have the opportunity to share a little love, just think how happy you can make someone! It is better to give than receive and the rewards are so much more!

"God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:16 NIV). ...

Have a blessed day,
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