Family

I always believed most families were structured and operated similar to mine. As a child, I had no reason to assume otherwise as I was totally immersed in the business of being a member of the “family”. Not until I reached adulthood did I realize there was a very real possibility our family was not normal. Even so, I love being a part of a very large, extended group of dysfunctional individuals bound by blood or in the case of the less fortunate, by marriage.

There is a hierarchy within the family as well as specific job descriptions. There are those in charge of certain matters and as they pass, someone else takes over their position. Members are forced out of some positions and into more difficult ones often based solely on their age.
Although we do not have a licensed physician, attorney, psychologist, minister and/or certified accountant among the entire group, we have individuals willing to fill those positions. In fact, some of the more gifted fill more than one.

We are a demonstrative bunch, a passionate group. A group of well over 100 people whom stay in constant contact. Membership is often exhausting. Those my age were raised knowing that Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, July 4th, Memorial Day, Labor Day, along with almost each and every weekend were reserved exclusively for family. Whether it be a simple meal shared on Sunday during the Cowboy game or an entire weekend at the lake, no one’s plans superseded the gathering of the extended family.

Throughout the history of our family, in-laws have had to learn to cope with these simple rules, some willingly and others, not so much. Many people (perhaps even some in-laws) might find our family a tad bit overbearing.

But it is the collection of these characteristics that makes our family unique. I don’t think I would want it any other way. It is the kindred spirit of the family that allows us to give and receive from each other without limitations.