
I’ve lived thousands of miles from my parents and siblings for the past sixteen years. We keep in touch through phone calls, e-mails, and Facebook.

The occasion??? A family wedding.
My younger sister is in her early forties, but this was her first marriage. We were all thrilled for her when she became engaged. I’d only met her then fiancĂ© during a quick visit back two years ago. During the past weekend my family was able to spend more time with him, as well as his teenage daughter and son. He’s a good guy, and the kids are outgoing and bright.
My brother and his wife have three children – all in their twenties. Although they’re separated by cities and states, all the cousins have close relationships. They warmly welcomed their new step cousins into the fold.
The thirteen-year-old new member commented to my husband that he’d been nervous about meeting everyone – not knowing what to expect – but immediately felt comfortable. He realized that he was now a part of our family and that we cared about him.
I looked around the circle that had grown once again, and would continue to grow as our children have their own.
And I thought . . .
My family is far from perfect. We have our flaws. We irritate each other. Like every other family we’re dysfunctional in various ways.
But at that time and place, we were all together, celebrating in unison.
We are family.
Dawn
