Thanks For Family    

I am sympathetic to the fact that many of you do not have the opportunity to live in a traditional American family structure.  Consequently, when the conversation is about families, you sometimes change the channel or take this time to pop the popcorn. 

However, before you get the salt and butter, let us look at the definition of family.  The traditional picture paints a scene of mom, dad, spot and 2.5 kids.  We have, however accepted the fact that the benefits of a family structure can still exist with any one of those elements missing. Benefits of security, guidance, companionship, support and structure.  Benefits that allow us to function and grow into positive contributing members of society.  Each of us who have experienced the guidance and discipline of a loving parent can now reflect in admiration over those challenging times. 

I amusingly recall my first visit to Auburn Prison.  We were on our way to play the inmates in softball and as I was escorted alongside the tall and glomming parameter, a feeling of fear rushed over me.  I quickly reminded myself that I would be able to leave at my own will and the fear was slightly reduced.  Having been searched, scanned and instructed, we were allowed to clear through the security gates and entered the concrete high security courtyard in which we were to play.  It was at that time that I had an overwhelming need to call my dad and thank him for spanking me when I took his car without permission in high school.  Fortunately for me, my prison experience was a positive one.  The inmates treated us with absolute respect and contrary to my unsubstantiated fears, we were able to leave at the end of the game.  Very few experiences have made me more grateful for a structured and disciplined family environment than to have been in prison for a day.           

This month, give thanks to your family. A perfect way to say thanks to your parent(s) would be to write a tribute to them. A tribute need not be long or elaborate.  It does not have to rhyme nor does it have to include every experience you have ever had.  A tribute simply needs to be from your heart (somewhat like your kindergarten drawings that they used to put on the refrigerator).  A tribute should merely express your appreciation for all they have done even if you did not like it at the time.  You may choose to get it printed or framed, but no matter how you present it, it will be received as a most precious present.  I don't believe anything you can buy will say thanks quite as effectively as your own words in a tribute.  In fact, tributes can also be for siblings or even extended family members.  One thing is for sure, if you insist on buying something…better make it a box of tissues because after they read the tribute, they may need the tissues.