This past week, I learned a lesson while hearing two of my granchildren argue. One said to the other,"Well,I am not your cousin any more!" This remark,like the sharp barb of an arrow hit its mark: the other cousin was hurt by those words.
Seeing this, I explained to them that family (cousins,siblings and parents) was something that one could not stop being. I told them through genetics they were stuck with each other. I explained we might refuse to speak to each other,refuse to see each other and claim that we have disowned each other; but in all reality, we could not change the fact that we are kin. The unshakable fact that we belonged to each other in ways that we could not ever belong to others.
Where else can one test their theories on independence and life, but in the safety of your family? Who else will tell you all of the creepy, crazy stuff about yourself and your personality,if not your siblings who waste no words using terms of "endearments" that no one else would dare say?
Where will you find a group of people who may make fun of you; but will not allow others to do the same? Or find your best cheerleaders and comforters when you need help?
My mother used to tell us when we were kids,"Your family is something that is a part of who you are." I have come to realize this is true. No matter where you go or who you go with, your family is a big part of who your are. You often make choices in life from the things you have learned within the confines of family. For some, there is bitterness that binds their life like chains while others, there is great peace and joy by forgiving and letting go . For some, they allow themselves to be held back and defeated while others walk in victory and move forward in life.
Those who travel in bitterness do not know the renewing love of God. They have not learned to allow Jesus to come into those places of bitterness and pull in up by the root. Yes, it is a painful process! Oh, but when it is done...there is a feeling over renewal and an open door to forgive others and even recieve forgiveness.
So no matter how crazy your family might be: they are the ones that God uses to shape you into a vessel that He can use for His Kingdom. I may be a vessel that has been smashed and worn;but I hold in me the true reason for life...JESUS
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1 comment:
Great post. I value family for the same very reason. Its great to see our family grow closer isnt it? We enjoyed being with family over the holidays as well. Thank you for always binding us all together.
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