Blood thicker than Water?

The saying that blood is thicker than water is a myth. I’m here to set the record straight. Often, blood lines are worse than enemies. It has been my experience that friendships I have developed over time have much deeper roots than some family blood lines.

Various things can contribute to a family being splintered. Drugs, money, education, and socioeconomic status are the main contributors to family not being family. As a result, many family members feel ostracized which causes them to withdraw. When a member of a family doesn’t have anything in common with the rest of the family, they tend to rely heavily on friends and bonds that have developed. As I reflect on my life, I identify with this wholeheartedly.

Let me start off by saying, I LOVE MY FAMILY, however, I do not love all aspects of my family. For example, I hate the fact that drugs and alcohol have destroyed both sides of my family. I would also say that I don’t get along with certain family members. This has occurred not for lack of trying but the disconnect is so huge the relationship has never developed or resentment is there. Not feeling as though you can depend on family when the chips are down has a huge impact on where you go to for support. I don’t want to give anyone the impression that all family is this way, because I have family members that I definitely can rely on. However, I have more family that I cannot rely on that those that I can rely on.

Friendships are chosen and family is thrust upon you, is a huge statement and the phrase that would describe me. The friends I have chosen over the years are truly God’s hand on my life and His guidance in the path I have chosen. I have friends that have been there for me over the years and their impact on my life has been tremendous. Throughout the major happenings in my life, my friends have stepped in and stepped up in their protection of me and those closest to me. In marriage, I have discovered that my in laws have stepped up as surrogate parents. They have been there to give advice to me, pray for me, and on certain occasions defend my character to folks that have tried to disparage my character. Since marriage is who we choose to spend the rest of our lives with, it is worth noting, that my wife is the greatest supporter I have.

I am not the easiest person to live with, which makes this last paragraph probably the most important. My wife has seen me at my worst and at my best. Despite the worst of me, she never has abandoned me or given up on me. She always wants what is best for me and will always try to get me to see the things that I desire may not always be what is the best thing for me.

Salute to those family and friends that have been there and continue to be. You know who you are. May God continue to shine His light on you and your family.