Family is so important.
Growing up, I didn’t spend very much time with my extended family. My father’s father died before I was born and his mother died when I was seven. On my mother’s side, her parents died while I was in college and her brother just after I graduated from college. I certainly remember a few visits with them, as well as cousins, aunts and uncles, but not nearly as many I should.
Living overseas like we did, it was difficult for my parents to “make the rounds” to see everyone during the summertime when we would be stateside. Now that I’m older and especially now that I have a child of my own, I wish they had made it a greater priority.
After my parents died, I realized how out of touch I had become with my extended family and it made me very sad. I have been trying to make up for it by reaching out more. Thanks to Facebook, I have reconnected with all of my cousins and I make a point of calling my aunts and uncles as often as I can. I know they all feel guilty too, but it happens…distance, schedules, work obligations, life.
Families are our history, our present and our future. They connect us. They divide us. I want you to know your family and spend as much time with them as you can.
Earlier this week your grandparents were in town for their fifth visit and right now my aunt and uncle (one of my father’s older brothers and his wife) are here. While being around them is bittersweet because almost everything my uncle says or does makes me miss my own father, I am so delighted that they are here. They are your family.
The best is yet to be.
Related Posts:
Agreed on every point!
And I miss them too.
Wish there was a “like” button on here like on facebook. I am so happy that you are enjoying all the family visits! See u next week! Haha