Family is defined by Webster as “all the descendants of a common ancestor.” For many this would mean grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, etc. Although I have many people who share the same ancestor as I do, I have never been able to have a relationship with a majority of them. Growing up, I had my parents, grandparents, and sister. Once my parents divorced when I was 15, that changed. Most holidays I spent time with my Mom, and we’d be visited by my grandparents en route to their other grandchildren. Being young I never understood why my extended family never talked, or why there had been so many issues amongst family members. During these times I realized that, yes, you are born into a family, but as the years go by, you pick up a few people along the way who you consider to be family.

My sister’s best friend from high school has been like my older brother to me for the last 10 years. He is not related, nor do we look anything alike for obvious reasons, but the bond we have is like no other. I go to his football games, and he has been at every one of my events he is able to attend. When he hasn't seen me, he calls and asks if he can steal me away for a few hours to go get dinner and catch up. His love is one of my lifes biggest blessings, and brightens even the worst of days. If I were to ever be in trouble, I know who to call. If I have a huge dilemma and need really thoughtful, unbiased advice, I have my brother.

I was extremely involved in my high school in an event called Red and White Night. It is a spirit night that is preceded by 2 months of hard work preparing, as well as smaller events to gain points for your team. The teams, (red and white) are split up by last name, and each team has 10 captains that are picked by peers and teachers. As a captain of 4 years, I had the opportunity to meet amazing people who share similar values and goals. I spent 2 1/2 months with 9 other captains who have truly become my family year after year. In my lowest of times, I had the greatest support system who would bring me up. In my highest of times, I was surrounded by people who wanted to celebrate my successes just as much as I did. From movie nights, to big family dinners, restaurant outings, celebrating birthdays, supporting each other in a time of grief, 3 am McDonald's runs, or driving around in the car, I have had amazing friends to share unforgettable memories with. I will never understand why I was given the chance to bond the 11 people pictured below, but they came into my life at the perfect time. For this, I will forever be grateful I found a group of people who are like brothers and sisters to me, and refer to me as such.

I have realized that even if my “blood family” wants nothing to do with me, I have amazing people in my life who contribute just as much to my life as a family member is expected to. Family is defined not by relation, but by the shared values and love that exists for one another. I would do anything in my power to make sure the people mentioned above were happy, healthy, safe, and had everything they needed to live a full life. When I go to bed at night, I know that I have my real family in my life who genuinely love me for who I am and what I stand for, and that is the best feeling in the world. This holiday season, don’t forget to tell all of your loved ones how much they mean to you. Whether it be your blood family, or your real family that you have accumulated, give them hugs, and show your appreciation for their existence in your life.