Week of November 12-18 - Question 1

To me, a family is not defined by a heterosexual man and woman with children. I believe that family is defined by an elevated level of trust that two or more people share. This trust seamlessly transitions into love. I consider family members as people who share this bond that look out for one another. I don’t think that people necessarily need to be bonded by blood in order to be considered family members. My best friend and I have known each other for fourteen years and I consider her my sister. She knows everything about me and although we’re both busy at times, I know if I ever need her she will be there for me. I think that if someone wants to define family differently from mine, I’m in no position to judge their opinion. For example, I find polygamy to be very strange and I don’t understand it, but I would never say that it doesn’t fit the definition of family. The only type of relationship that I have some issues with are arranged marriages. Unless the marriage is arranged and the two individuals make a connection and build trust, I don’t see how they can be defined as family. To me, a piece of paper and a ring has no influence on whether or not you have a stable relationship. It’s about the bond, I can’t say that enough. I wish more people understood that