Last night, there were 25 family members packed into the Lodge. We ate pizza, devoured the desserts and laughed until some of us were crying. Literally.
I didn't do a Thankful Thursday this week because well, I forgot it was Thursday. But even still, this time of the year as I am all other times, I am so thankful for my family.
My family doesn't quarrel.
My family doesn't boast to each other.
My family laughs together.
My family cries together.
My family loves unconditionally.
My family doesn't hold onto bitterness.
My family loves Jesus more than they love each other.
Now we may sound all Mayberry and Norman Rockwellian but we're not perfect. Not even close to it.
We mess up just like everybody else. Feelings are hurt, things are left unspoken and even in the largest family, loneliness sets in. We're human. It happens. Intentionally or unintentionally, sometimes family can cause the deepest hurts.
But my family also knows how to forgive and remember that our love for each other is stronger than any hurt.
My family practices respect. We respect each other's feelings, opinions and voices.
Everything I've learned about how to operate in this big, wide world, I first learned in my family.
"Other things may change us, but we start and end with family." - Anthony Brandt
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