Hold Onto Each Other Above Everything Else

I am making the changes which have plagued my family for generations past.  In many ways, I am a genetic mutation.  I am not referring to the fact that I am the only one in my family who cannot roll their tongue into a hot dog bun.(Watching me try has been a source of constant amusement for my children.)  I am also not referring to the fact that my second toe is longer than my first toe.(Okay, I suppose I didn't have to admit that, but I try to keep things real.)  What I am referring to is the fact that for as many generations as I can count back, there has always, and I mean always, been some sort of ridiculous family rift which has kept people who love each other from remaining in each other's lives.  This is something that has occurred on both my maternal and paternal sides of the family, so I would say that it is pretty strongly embedded within the genetics.  But, alas, I am a genetic mutation and my genetic make-up says that the stupidity stops here.  

Being a realist, I understand that I will not be able to prevent my angels from making spontaneous decisions.  They will face moments of anger and misunderstanding, but during those times I would also hope that they will think back to what I have taught them about family unity.  Being an optimist, I would also hope that some of what I have strived to teach them about love and connection will stick, and that they will overcome any disagreements that they have, quickly and fairly.  My prayer is that they will always find love to be stronger than anger.
We spent our first weekend at the beach, appreciating and loving on one another.  As my girls get older, I find that I have more time to take a step back to observe them within their own dynamics, separate from mine and my husbands.  They are becoming strong, independent women.  Each one of them has a spirit which shines brightly on it's own.
They are unique, self-starting, creative and loving.  They are four parts but together, they make a whole.
I thank God every day, that I found this guy to be my husband and to make my children with.  Together, we have created a family that emphasizes loyalty, unity and above all else, love.  Our genetic puzzles created children that are well-versed in what it means to hold onto each other above everything else.

And for these reasons, I am astoundingly proud to admit that I am a genetic mutation.  A mutation which I pray will carry forth for generations to come.  A mutation that will forgive and forget the stupidity of those who came before.  A mutation that will promote the strength of love above the need to be right.

This is my prayer, not only for my family, but for yours, as well.

Amen.