While BC celebrated their very first “Family Day” this month, I was unfortunately spending the day in Edmonton – away from my own family for the second year in a row (I was in Edmonton during Alberta’s family day last year). After spending the past two years living in towns and cities that are distanced from the city I call home (Vancouver), I find myself more appreciative of the fact that I have the family I do – both blood related and non.
My real family – the people I share common blood with – are the most loving, caring and nurturing people I know. They’re funny and understand the importance of enjoying eachother’s company, but they’re also intelligent and dedicated to using their knowledge to make something of themselves in this world. They’re a great influence on me, and they encourage me to give my very best to everything I do.
But I’m also lucky enough to have a family of friends – who I’ve found along my journey of growing up and bouncing around between jobs and cities. People who were once random strangers, have become the most crucial and important people in my life. I couldn’t imagine my life without them and I love them as if they were truly a part of my family. They make me a better person, because they push me to follow my heart and find happiness. They take care of me and protect me – not because they have to, but because they want to. It’s a mutual feeling of honest love that we share, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
I know that family members can sometimes be extremely irritating or bothersome, and that some friendships can be dramatic or frustrating at times – but at the end of the day, these are the people who contribute to the awesome-ness of your life. So just remember to be real, be genuine and give them the best you can. They deserve it, and so do you.
And even though Family Day might be over, don’t forget to give your loved ones an extra tight squeeze, a big wet kiss, and a great reminder of how grateful you are to have them in your life.
