Everyone has an innate need to be a part of a family. It’s the way we are wired.
Despite the splintered nature of families today, it’s a timeless. Examine almost any group of people and some likeness of “family” can be discovered -- even in gangs, cults and prison cell blocks. At least, that’s my opinion.
As I ponder peer groups throughout my lifetime , I recognize the family roles various friends played. And as I recall, those friends who started to most “feel” like a mom were the ones I felt the most friction with at that particular time. Thankfully those friends still loved me and accepted me, no matter what mood I sported.
So what does family in the context I am writing have to do with the title “Transforming Mom”? I see a connection between all the groups of people/family units who had influence on me and the transformation I am undergoing as a mom today. For better or for worse, my family of origin left a huge imprint upon me. My high school peers provided me a safe place to explore who I was and be that person, although peer pressure did affect me at that time. College was the beginning of my maturing process, which is ongoing to this day. A multitude remarkable people have impacted me and facilitated growth and change, most often in the context of love, honor and respect.
To all of you remarkable people, I say thank-you.
Who were/are the change agents in your life?
I have had a best friend for the last 10 years. Recently, our relationship has been going through some painful, but ultimately good, changes. No matter what, I am still able to see that I am who I am because of the strong influence she has been in my life.
ReplyDeleteIt makes me think of the song from Wicked "For Good".
"Because I knew you, I have been changed for good..."
I believe "family" doesn't necessarily mean you have to be connected by blood but rather by the heart.
ReplyDeleteThis is especially true for me since I was adopted and had no siblings. I had to adopt some people to take on those roles to fulfill needs I had.
With parents; any one can become a mother or father but it takes special people to be parents.
<3
Simply Heidi and Krista, thanks so much for your comments. Heidi, I definitely can relate to what you shared about a good friend and tough changes in relationship. I agree whole-heartedly with what you voiced, also, Krista.
ReplyDelete