Be the Connector
For Christmas, my husband gave me a DNA kit from Ancestry. Com. You simply “spit” in a tube and mail it off. Six weeks later you receive a report of what part of the world your ancestor’s came from. I was amazed at how accurate it was. My mother had shared a lot of my heritage with me so I knew where my people originated. It also confirmed that I share the same DNA as my brother. Yes, we are most definitely related.
This experience prompted me to reflect on what makes a family. We all have heard the saying that blood is thicker than water. Is that really true when it comes to family? I have always looked at my Mom as the connector. She would make sure that everyone received a birthday card. Mom always remembered the anniversaries, the graduations and the special moments in our lives. Her children, their spouses, grandchildren and close family friends, were all welcome at the table for dinner. You did not have to be an official family member to be included.
Enjoying time with Colin and G.
This June, my youngest son will be married. Our family will grow as we welcome a lovely daughter in law. No, we don’t share the same DNA but she will be family all the same. I will be the connector to make sure she and her family will feel that they are a part of ours.
It’s wonderful to have “ blood” relatives. However, it is more important to connect a circle of people that will always be there for you. Close friends, brothers, sisters and ‘in-laws” will always have a place at my table. Accept them for who they are and nourish those relationships along.
Be the connector in your family. It will give you great joy and satisfaction to know you are the glue that binds your tribe together.
Colin with his Bride to Be
Be the Connector