family & growing up

Growing up, I thought I knew it all. I believed I had all the answers, but no one has all the answers.

Life has a funny way of teaching us valuable lessons.

Through those lessons and the advice and experience of my family, I continue to grow and learn something every day.

I trust my family to lead me in the right direction.

While my life hasn't been perfect - there have been a few hiccups along the way, I try to be a good role model for my siblings. If anything, I hope they can learn from my experiences.

I think the older we get, the wiser we become and the more we appreciate, love, respect and value our family.

In my family, I am often the "mediator" or the "firefighter" (putting out the "fires" or arguments in the family).

I try to look after my brothers and sister...give them advice when they ask for it...guide them...and be a mentor for them.

It is so important to remember our roots and where we come from. Never forget the people who brought us into and brought us up in this world. Family will always be there, when friends have long disappeared.

My family has had our fair share of trials and tribulations along the way. Some of our relationships have struggled, but I think no matter what, we're always there for each other.

I believe the past should stay in the past, especially the "bad". Why dwell on an argument that happened months or years ago? Life is too short and sometimes we have to admit when we're wrong and when someone else is right.

I believe in not burning bridges....with family or friends.

I think we have a tendency to hurt the ones we care most about, because we know they care so much about us, that they will forgive us no matter what.

My mom has done so much for me and my brothers our entire lives. I know I am guilty of taking advantage of that and taking it for granted. As I've gotten older, I try to call her more, send her cards just because, spend quality time with her - just the two of us, and buy her gifts she has always wanted, but never bought for herself. I hope my brothers learn and realize this as well.

I know my dad values every minute we get to spend together. Especially the time we lost while I was growing up. I know he regrets that and I love and appreciate him that much more because of the effort he is putting into our relationship now.

My parents mean the world to me. They have given me so much. I will never forget that. I hope I can some day repay them.

I pray that my brothers and sister learn this valuable life lesson earlier than later. Family is so important - never lose sight of that.