They say you can choose your friends, but not your family. I’m sure that statement rings true for a lot of us. Our families can drive us up the wall, even at the best times, laughing at our crazy stories. What if I told you that you may not speak to your family at some point in your life? Your reaction would most likely be, ‘That’s ridiculous; we’re a close family; how could that be possible?’

I’m here to tell you it is possible. And I find myself playing this scenario repeatedly in my head, and I’m trying not to let it bother me. However, I was raised in a family that believes in “see it, say it.” On the other hand, the other extreme would be to say nothing at all. I struggle to make sense of this. Being unable to find the right words, being stubborn, or needing to be right isn’t the solution.

Communication, or the lack thereof, is crucial. Take my “in-laws” (I’m sure there’s a joke in there somewhere). During my split with my husband, I was very focused on ensuring he and I had a civil and kind relationship. Trust me, we had our moments, but at the end of the day, we share two children we both love and adore. Wouldn’t being friendly and kind be easier than being right?

Everyone has a breakup story, some good, some bad, and, well, my in-laws thought differently. It’s been 3 1/2 years since I’ve heard a peep, which makes me sad for them and everything they’re missing out on. Sure, they get an occasional visit from their grandsons in the summer and on Christmas Eve, but what about everything else in between?

This resurfaced for me recently due to the upcoming celebrations of my younger son’s graduation. It was emotional and sad to think that this once-close family was torn apart because of a few stubborn egos.

It’s so ridiculous! Regardless of the absent in-laws, I’m trying to keep things in perspective. That said, wouldn’t you want to resolve these issues moving forward? Isn’t there more to lose than not? It’s obvious to me, but maybe I’m too much of an idealist. I know that sometimes families can’t be fixed. I don’t understand it, but I get it.

I have to believe my husband and I have done it right. After all, we’re the grown-ups here, trying to set an example, but it can sometimes be challenging. There will be many more celebrations in the future; sadly, this family can’t figure it out.

Although I wish I knew how to solve it, I washed my hands of this a while ago. That said, it still bothers me. They’re not even my parents, except that their actions affect all of us, and that’s the kicker! I believe in unconditional love, and we can agree to disagree, not run when the going gets tough or abandon ship. Who does that?!

The Urban Dictionary’s definition of family:

“A group of people, usually of the same blood (but do not have to be), who genuinely love, trust, care about, and look out for each other. Not to be mistaken, with relatives sharing the same household who hate each other. REAL family is a bond that cannot be broken by any means.”

I think this sums it up quite nicely! I love my family, my REAL family. There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do, say, help with, or fight for to be in their lives. So, remember, when things get heated up, communicate this love because, in the end, family matters.

LC