Extended Definition Essay

English 1213

3 March 2020

Rough Draft

Upon hearing the word family, one may believe that family is referred to as primarily birth parents and biological components that make up a family. The Mirriam-Webster Dictionary defines family as “the basic unit in society traditionally consisting of two parents rearing their children, also: any of various social units differing from but regarded as equivalent to the traditional family.” This can have many different meanings, but one clearly painted is the definition of family is not always bound by genetics or biology, but more so by choice. Family is not always chosen and occasionally falls into someone’s life unexpectedly, they maintain a level of love and support even when things become difficult in life, and provides reassurance and comfortability by continuously making their presence in known.

Have you ever heard the term “Blood is thicker than water?” This is a term that is well known and has been heard many times from family members. This is a relevant phrase for someone who may be upset that a family member is choosing someone who does not share any biological connections to the other person. This phrase is in fact in the wrong context, much like many phrases people use to better suit their version of the situation. The actual term is “Blood of the Coven is Thicker than the Water of the Womb.” Which gives a very different interpretation of the initial phrase. This would signify that family is not defined by biology, but by choice. More often than not, as life progresses, we begin to meet people that can be better defined as a family member than our own biological family. It may be as simple as striking up a conversation in a grocery store with a random person, then they wind up being a child’s god parent.

Relationships, friendships, and occasional toxic family members may come and go. True people who care like a family member would, aren’t easily dismissed. They will remain a consistent support system and do not waver in their ability to support someone they care about. Life is not easy and having a support system is crucial to surviving this thing we call life. (Needs Work)

In addition to feeling love and support, reassurance and being comfortable is important in maintaining relationships with loved ones. Family is the feeling of being comfortable around people. Trusting that they always have your best interest in mind and maintaining a level of trust between two people. Trust is a meaningful characteristic that only people who have a true connection can have. Trusting that they will always be present when called, they will help through struggles, and listening to problems or achievements and being happy for their loved one vs feeling jealous or resentful because there may be a chance that someone is doing better than them.

Family can be defined in many ways. There are several great aspects, but there are also very bad ones. Toxic family members give the good ones a bad reputation. They assure that it is hard to believe anyone has true intentions and makes loyalty questionable. People who genuinely care will never intentionally cause harm or distress to another person, especially a person they claim to care so much about. Family members are loving regardless of faults, supportive of choices, and will always reassure their loved ones when they are feeling less than adequate about any decision in life.