Family...

Recently I traveled east to visit friends & family for Thanksgiving. I hadn't seen this side of the Silas clan in over five years, and some for more than seven. My experience was deep and oh so, meaningful. Each moment on my adventure and my interactions with family from my 11 year old cousin to my 74 year old aunt and uncle was priceless. Not only did I have a wonderful, fun, loving, hilarious, enjoyable, delicious and enchanting time, but I learned a couple important lessons. First of all, it doesn't matter how long the time is between visits, unconditional love amongst a family can last for a lifetime! You can sustain close relationships and they will grow with you into the future. You only need to honor and nurture them, keeping them present in your daily life. It's not easy, but it's possible. Secondly, I learned that a non-judgmental family is the truest form of family. It doesn't always have to be represented by blood, but that makes it extra special. I have been home a week now and I am still high with love from the time spent with my Silas roots. I laughed, I cried, I shared, I listened, I felt, I loved, I honored... We stayed up late talking, catching up, and getting to know each other again. Those moments are my true Thanksgiving! My most recent trek east is one I will treasure and be extremely grateful for FOREVER! And I know this, I'm not waiting five plus years to do it again!