Family. A word so simple, yet means so much.

I don't know how many can say this, but I grew up knowing how lucky I was to have a family that loves me unconditionally. We may not be the biggest family, but as new chapters begin to unfold, we are growing.

Growing larger in size and love.

Throughout my years, my family has been my support system. They know me better than I know myself, even if I don't want to admit it. Believe it or not, I know them just as well.

Many times, we can forget about the people that know we love them, so that is the reason I am writing this.

We may not be perfect. We argue, we laugh, we cry, we party, and we are constantly understanding one another. That may be a lot for some, but I wouldn't have it any other way. My family is the people I want to hang out with most. When we are together, there is so much love, and not to mention, we have so much fun.

We all know each other's most embarrassing moments, which makes for the perfect stories at a family get-together.

All of those things are great. However, the thing that makes me forever grateful is that I know I have people who are ALWAYS going to have my back. I know these people love me unconditionally, no matter how I act or what I do. Everything is forgiven and we love even more because of that.

I think I can speak for everyone who has a close family that is the thing that makes you, you. See, you're not just one person; you have a little bit of everyone in you. Your aunts, grandparents, siblings, cousins, parents, friends; you name it! Whatever your family consists of, you carry them with you every day. They are all leaning in on the decisions you make because you know that your voice would matter if they were the ones making a decision.

Having a safe place you can go to can be heard when you need to be. It isn't about what we say, it's about how we show it. Some of us may say it better than others, some may show it by doing favors and not expecting anything in return. Whatever way you show your appreciation, just know it doesn't go unnoticed by your family.

Thank you to my family for showing me what love is and how to love. Thank you for showing me acceptance and making sure that I know I matter in this world. Without you guys, I would not be half the person I am today.