2014 is for Family

"A man ought to live so that everyone knows he is a Christian...and, most of all, his family ought to know" -D.L.Moody

Family is the basic unit of society, at least that's what I remember being taught when I was younger.

My definition of family is different than perhaps the definition that others have for family. I try to sincerely love those who around me no matter where I am at the time. This has, at times, led to disappointment when those around me fail, back slide, or don't love me back. Yet I love anyway. Those who are around me I make my family. I get hurt when those who are around me move away and the closeness we once had is gone, but I give love nonetheless.

 I'm trying to focus more on people around me than on myself.

More time with my family (household) is necessary for my survival. Time well spent with our leadership team at the corps (soldiers and employees) is needed. Time with my biological family is important.

My mother has had an extremely rough few months and is living in a personal care home permanently. While the situation is not the best, I do believe it is the right decision for her at this time. Often I wonder if my siblings and I are doing the right thing. Many would think that we should take on the responsibility of her care, but we cannot provide what she needs even though we are "family." I am trying to love and respect her not just because she is family, but because she really needs someone to love and respect her.

It has been in difficult times like this when I am forced to re-define what "family" is as those who are the most supportive, encouraging, and helpful overall are not necessarily those who I share biological kinship.

Family is important. I love my family.

I was blessed this year to bring in the New Year with my brother Luke and his precious family after spending time with my sister Kate and her family. Add to that Zihir was with Luke and I and the girls and I realized quickly how over abundantly blessed I am for the richness of family.

I am thankful for them and for the close knit family of God I live life with in Murfreesboro.

2014 is for family. Looking forward to time spent with family this year.