Just about a year and a half ago my great aunt passed away. My aunt left behind one hell of a legacy; one of manipulation and deceit, among other things. It was the legacy of this woman, along with new editions to my family, that caused me to start thinking about what family really is. I have always thought of "family" in a very Italian mob, Tony Soprano kind of way. But in the past few years, especially the last six months, I've realized that is a weird way to think of family. Family are the people who call you just to say hello. They are the ones who celebrate when things go your way, or comfort when things don't. They are the people who speak truth to you, out of love, when truth needs to be spoken. They are the ones who except truth with love and try to change from it. If my sister and I never followed those rules of family we wouldn't have the amazing relationship we have. When I think about those things that constitute family I think of my parents, my sister, and her family. I think of my boyfriend, of my close friends, my pastor, my sunday school class, my church. These people are my family. We share a bond that runs much deeper than blood, although most Italians would argue that nothing runs deeper than your blodd. We share the common understanding and faith in the blood of Christ. And that runs much deeper than anything I've ever known. There is a woman in my church who was very vital to both mine and my sisters lives. She taught both of us sunday school for years, she has the patience of a saint and a heart of gold. When I shared with her that my sister was having her first baby, her eyes filled with tears and she told me that hearing that made her feel like a grandma. She is my family. And I know that one day the legacy she leaves behind will be one of love and the sweetness of God's grace. Isn't that what family is? Shouldn't we leave, and expect to be left, a legacy that is sweet and not one that is bitter?

Belated Birthday Post

This is terribly belated. I turned 20 almost a month ago now. But I had a wonderful day and Stephen got me the most beautiful presents! He bought me something I will cerish forever. An old edition of "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. He is by far my favorite author and Gatsby is my favorite novel by him. It is just one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen. I cried when I opened it. I was expecting it in a way since I had asked him for a copy but I had not expected something so beautiful. The condtion is almost perfect. It's just out of this world. I am a little afraid to read it but I want to eventually. I just have to work up the nerve.