Take two parents. Add one brother, plus three grandparents and one great-grandparent. Throw in another five aunts, five uncles, and 14 cousins. This is the equation that makes up my family. Although some parts of this whole are not alive in this world anymore, they are still a fundamental part of my equation. I have always considered myself extremely lucky to grow up in such a big family; I only have one sibling, and yet I feel like I have 14 more in my cousins. I've learned so much from each and every member I've grown up with, life lessons that naturally come with growing up in a big family.
I've learned to develop a sense of humor. Because you will get teased and poked fun at. It's all in good fun, and sometimes you deserve it!
I've learned that you should take risks and try new things. Because the bigger your family is, the larger your fan base and support system will be, whether you succeed or fail.
I've learned that embarrassing moments will not go unnoticed. "Hey, remember that time when?" Whether it's something you or someone else in your family did, said, or posted on social media, the age of Facebook and Snapchat has made it way easier for your family to dig up the dirt to fuel conversations at Thanksgiving and Christmas. It's better to laugh with them!
I've learned that holidays really are the best time of the year. In my family, not one major holiday goes by without a big family gathering. During Christmas we get together with my Mom's side for Christmas Eve and my Dad's side for Christmas Day. For the past few years on Christmas Eve, my cousins, brother and I have had organized outfit themes for Christmas (flannels, Hawaiian shirts, and ugly Christmas sweaters, just to name a few). On Christmas Day with my Dad's side, my Aunt makes tons of great food, and we all sit around in the living room watching movies or playing games (The year we played Cards Against Humanity is currently my favorite).
I've learned that there are many reasons to celebrate. Birthdays every month, new jobs, achievements in school, and anniversaries, there are plenty of things going on every week. Having a big family has taught me to appreciate every great moment that happens to someone I love.
I've learned that I will always have someone to relate to. Whether it's a problem in school, a health issue, or stress that I've been dealing with, there is always someone in my family who has walked in those shoes before me, and their experiences and advice are extremely helpful.
I've learned to never take a moment with your family for granted. Because sometimes you don't know when you'll get to see them next, and sometimes it might be your last moment with one of them. Going away to college has definitely added a whole new meaning to family, and you will never regret taking time out of your life at college to spend a weekend at home with your loved ones.
