Our Own Family
Family should ideally be our sanctuary, but what happens when it isn't? What if the individuals meant to shield and guide us are, in fact, causing us the most harm and pain? What if they're the reason we feel like we're sinking and losing our sense of worth? We are responsible for our own lives, and we cannot hold anyone accountable for the decisions we make. We always have a choice. So, if the environment we were born into does not provide the safety and support we need, we have the power to construct our own family, to create our own haven.
The term "family" carries a broad significance; it doesn't necessarily need to be based on blood relations. Anyone has the potential to form their own family, particularly when they've grown up in an environment devoid of love. Family should be synonymous with love, whether it's through blood ties or relationships we build. In essence, if we've been raised in a fractured family, the individuals we seek for guidance and affection, those who genuinely care for us—whether they are neighbors, close friends who feel like siblings, or a compassionate, nurturing teacher—become our true family.
Surround yourself with individuals who genuinely care for and love you; these individuals are your family. Those who fail to appreciate your love or hurt you, even if they are your biological family, have no justification to inflict harm, and it's crucial to establish boundaries to prevent further damage.
Sometimes our biological family may fail us or hurt us in ways we can hardly fathom, but let's never forget that we are deserving of love, and there are people who love us and eagerly await us to reciprocate it. Do not shut yourself off because you feel unworthy, or because someone else has made you feel that way. Open your heart to those around you, and you will recognize those who have been caring for and loving you. Often, the affection and appreciation they offer surpasses and outnumbers those from our biological family. It's perfectly acceptable to regard those people as your family. When you encounter them, do not resist the love they offer; have faith that there are individuals eager to love you and be loved by you in return. They are the family you have built.
We possess the power and the right to form our own family, surrounded by people who truly care for us. However, it's equally essential to recognize that there are others who share our struggles and may be enduring injustices and pain as we have. Let us not withhold our affection and light from them. Recall how you felt during your difficult times and welcome them with open hearts.
Those who have experienced suffering are often the most adept at extending a helping hand to those in similar circumstances. Where there is love, there is family. Whenever we share our love with others and experience love in return, we create a sense of belonging. This is the true concept of family.
Keep in mind that love is always present around us should we opt to seek it, and that we always have a choice. Build your new family. Create your own home.