The Foundation of Family

There is no one way to go about describing the importance of family, but I think there are three main characteristics that encompass a family. Nurturing/instruction is mainly needed during childhood, guidance is most important during adolescence, and loyalty is really shown through the adult stages of life. Of course, these attributes are needed all the time, but during the main stages these attributes pinpoint what is most critical.These are characteristics that my family has, and they prove why families are so important.

Characteristic 1: A family is meant to care for one another and help the members grow and learn. That is why families are nurturing, but also instructive. During childhood this is the main characteristic that comes forth in a family because the child is new into the world and is just learning the basics. For example, I just became an aunt and a godmother last year, and Braelyn, the baby, constantly needs to be cared for. As the she grows up she may become more independent, but she will still need help, especially when it comes to new experiences, like walking. Braelyn is just entering into the world of walking, and though it may sound cliché, she is literally stumbling every step of the way. Braelyn is not able to walk on her own now, but with lots of assistance and practice, she will eventually. There are always going to be difficulties, but by being nurturing and instructive, families give a good foundation to start from.

Characteristic 2: Families also guide one another. This characteristic is mainly needed during the adolescent stage of life; the stage I am in right now. This is the era of the teenager, where children think they know everything, but sadly they do not. Though it is sad to admit, I know from experience that teenagers always think they are right and that they know what is best. This leads to rebellion against any authority that tries to control them. People, especially adolescents, need boundaries and guidance when they do not know what lies ahead, and families are just the thing to give them what they need.

Characteristic 3: Families are loyal. Though this characteristic is needed all the time, it fits well with adulthood, because this is most likely when the biggest challenges and complications will occur. Though I have not had any personal catastrophes yet, I am sure there are plenty coming. My parents have told me of how it might be hard to find a job when I am just starting off, but at least I have confidence because I know even if I do not have a job I have my family to carry me. People need to know that even if everything else in their life seems to be going wrong their family is still their supporting them. My family has nurtured me as a child, is guiding me as an adolescent, and will stay loyal to me as an adult; this, I Believe.