We see them all the time. At the beach, the parks, out at restaurants. A fascinating group of people who when together, do not seem to notice any other person in the room. They are families. They are focused on their family members, and seem comfortable in their togetherness. I have laid out different scenarios of how some of these families may be viewed.
The Beach Family
Summer is in full swing, the beaches are packed, parking lots look like a can of sardine, cars are tightly packed together. Children darting in between cars, while moms are calling for an older child to grab a sibling’s hand. Dads walking ahead to scope out a good place to beach for the day. The sky is a bright hue of blue, as the sun’s yellow rays beat against the surfer’s back. A water skier tied to a speedboat, is seen skiing through the water just to teeter totter, and slam up against an incoming tide. A game of volleyball is being played, as people young, and old are happily swimming against the current.
The Park Family
At the park, a red and white checkered table covers two tables that were pushed together to accommodate the big family. Trees lightly scattered around the park. Wine glasses are passed around, as the best vintage bottle is popped open. Frisbee is thrown back and forth, as children are running around playing tag. An easy breeze meets the sun’s rays, and do a waltz across the family gathering park. The playground is filled with children’s laughter, as adults closely monitor their child. Family members busily sets the table as they happily discussed an upcoming family birthday. What will be the birthday theme? Will auntie bake the birthday cake this year? Where will the birthday be held are just some questions that can be heard.
The Home
Plates and glasses clink in the busy kitchen as adults, both men and women, one big family, work together to fix their family meal. There is a lot of laughter, a lot of jokes told, a lot of teasing. Children stop and stare at the dessert table filled with apple tarts, cupcakes, rice krispie treats, apple covered chocolates… in the living room, a few men are watching sports and yelling at the referee who deducted points from their team, laughter comes through from the women who are gossiping about a distance cousin who ran off with the mailman. Outside on the patio, several men are grilling hot dogs, steaks, burgers, as they stand around and talk about the latest player to go pro. Conversation is comfortable and light, everyone knows each other.
Restaurants
The restaurant’s private room has been reserved for a family celebration. A lot of laughter and good natured humor as grandpa tells the story of uncle’s wild ways when he was a young boy. They gather round to hear the story of one of their beloved family members. The waiters and waitresses individually take orders, and bring in tortilla chips and salsa, in the house, as they await their meals. Children have their own table and some are on electronics while their cousins watch them play on Roblox.
There is a festive, joyful feeling in the air. Family members are glad to once again be together, as it is rare to gather everyone together because of different work schedules. But today, they are celebrating grandpa’s birthday, and they made time ahead of time. Grandpa is loved, and everyone wants to see grandpa happy. He is a favorite in this family, and they have gathered to celebrate his special day.
Dynamics
This is a peek into family dynamics, and what makes a family, well… a family. Without mentionion the arguments, maybe even physical fights that ensue from too much alcohol, or intense hard feelings/grudges that had been festering, and finally released during these outings. Those special circumstances do not, nor should not happen often in a family. Family is home. It should be a safe space for all family members.
This summer, I hope you will enjoy time with your loved ones and your family. There is so much violence, and hate in this world. Let us love our families. Let us love one another. Love is always, always the answer. Call that family member and let them know they matter. I wish you and yours all the happiness and love. Enjoy the rest of your summer.