“There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues, the most dominating virtues of human society, are created, strengthened and maintained” -Winston Churchill
It seems that in the craziness of my daily [weekly, monthly] life, I have become so entangled in the game of winning the affection of those around me. Whether my clients or my church members, my acquaintances or my friends. Don't get me wrong--this 'game', as I called it, is a necessary one. I love these people, and love feels best when reciprocated.
Family is different. It's an unmatchable feeling to walk in the door and witness the glow on your grandmother's face: pride, love, excitement. She didn't even have to say a word, and I felt my value in her embrace.
It was amazing to spend time with my uncle, aunt, and their new baby boy. So incredible to witness the immediate love and protection of new parents. (Not to mention to watch in amazement as grown men melt before giggles and grins and as women develop a new language paired with this goofy pitch in their voice.) My uncle is hilarious. My dad is hilarious. My uncle and dad together, rehashing memories of their childhood mischief--so incredibly hilarious.
And the best part of Michigan? The big dinner. The "family reunion" of sorts. Cousins (everybody is a cousin, basically), aunts, uncles, grandparents. My Portuguese family all in one house is similar to what you would experience in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding." Hugs and stories and laughter and debating. Catching up and sizing up ("Oh my! You've gotten big!"). Is there awkwardness? Of course. But it's amazing that these people immediately inquire about our newly married life. They make strides to get to know my husband, to ask us about our dreams. They care about me, and I didn't even send out 'thank you' cards from our wedding (and it has haunted me to this day). All of the drama (even the family drama) subsides for a minute, and we are all reminded of the connection we were given by birth, by circumstances (some good and some bad), by our choices and the choices of those before us. We are reminded of our past, yet encouraged about our future. There is an embrace that comes without touch and a pride that comes without words.
Family. My favorite gift of the season.
Not because I'm famous, but because they deserve it, here are my gratitude "shout-outs" this Christmas Season.
Thank you so much, Justin Sheffield, for being the best husband a girl could ask for. I am so excited to be in this journey of life with you by my side. I am amazed at the thought that the Lord has crossed our paths for a lifetime. I am blessed. I love you so much.
Thank you, family. Mom and dad--you are the most incredible parents ever. I really could spend hours upon hours pouring out my heart to you. I am so grateful. So blessed. I have never doubted your love. I have never doubted that you care. You have been my greatest investors. I could never repay you for the love, support, [food, clothing, shelter, gas money, wedding...]. J.C. and Chelsea--it's crazy to watch you grow up. I know I only have a few years on you two, but it's still enough to look on with pride and over-protectiveness. Couldn't imagine what life would be like without you. Fights and arguments and sibling drama still exist, but our bond is strong--you are two of my greatest friends. I believe in both of you so much. Don't ever sell yourself short.
Inlaws--The Sheffield Family. I'm sure you never expected your son to fall for one girl majority of his high-school career, then commit to marrying her for the rest of his life, but from day one, you guys have been the sweetest people. Mr. Buddy and Ms. Felicia--you are like second parents to me. I feel the same pride and concern and love in your home as in my own, and couldn't dream of a better family to become a part of. Becky, Sarah, and Caleb--I love you guys so much. I can imagine it's a hard thing watching your brother get married, but you have all loved me so generously. I can't wait for the many, many family dinners to come.
Extended family--Smith side. ;) I couldn't even begin to recall the memories I have with you all. Aunt Kim and Aunt Mel, you have loved me like your own. I have never doubted your support, and I don't doubt for a second that if I faltered you would be there still with open arms. Jamie Jones--you are constantly on my heart. I can't wait to look on as you become the incredible woman you are gifted to be. You have so much life in front of you--don't give up. I believe in you. Aunts and uncles and cousins--when I think of all of our connections, dinners, conversations, and reunions, I can only think of warmth. Love abounds in this family, and it has become a foundation for my life ahead. Poppy and Nana--you are in my heart forever.
Extended family--Bartlebaugh side. Grandma Maggie--you win the most incredible grandma in the world award. You are such a great example of a loving, selfless, hardworking, optimistic woman of God. I have no doubt that the grace and anointing I am walking in now is a result of your prayers (as well as my Nana's.) You are a role model. Grandpa Bartlebaugh--I am certain that I could not even begin to recognize the investment you made in my childhood. You are so much fun to be around, and I treasure our talks about the news or the past or life in general. Can't wait to spend time with you again. Uncle Chris and Aunt Tracy--I admire your relationship with each other. You have both embraced life with diligence and light-heartedness, which creates the perfect formula for the awesome parents you are going to be. Thank you for getting to know me as a grown-up. I love talking to you guys, and can't wait for our relationship to grow as life continues. Extended family--thank you for loving me as I am. I've always been a bit awkward and quirky, but your belief in me has never faltered. I am still amazed that so many of you took the time and money to attend my wedding. That was the greatest gift I could have received. I am even more floored at your involvement in my life on the other side of the celebration. You have kept in contact with me, and loved me (as I mentioned earlier) through my fault of not sending out my 450 thank-you cards. My husband and I are both so grateful for your gifts, and even more grateful for your relationships.
This Christmas, set aside the awkward feelings, the computer, the video games, and the television, and count your blessings. Whatever your family looks like, whoever they are, tell them that you are thankful for them. Family is a beautiful thing. Let us not take it for granted.
Merry Christmas, everybody.
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