I have a mother, father, stepfather and stepmother, and I love them all, and I’m lucky that they love me too. I’m lucky that I was a wanted (even if unplanned) child (who is still surprising her folks on a regular basis 49 years later, grins at parents through the internet). I’m lucky that all my parents have always done their best to understand me, accept me, support me, help and comfort me when I needed it. I love that they love Nicola so much.
I have a family in England who are not mine, but they love me for the sake of their daughter and sister, and for my own sake, and have made me welcome as if I am theirs.
Some families are horror shows. None are perfect. So many families, like mine, have made and unmade and re-made themselves. I hope that you have found a family, whether based on blood, choice, or a little of both; that you have people who scratch their heads over your wackiness and your flaws and will still give you a hug and a cup of coffee, or the last beer in the fridge. Because that’s where it starts, you know? And sometimes that’s all it takes.
And so I know it’s Father’s Day, but I think I will eschew the greeting card companies’ calendar in favor of my own. For me, it’s Family Is Good day.
Thanks, Dad and Mum, for always making me feel loved and wanted and smart and as safe as you could, and for making sure I had so many chances that you never had. Thanks, Art and Celeste, for making a place for me in your hearts. Thanks, Eric and Margot and Anne and Julie and Carolyn, for all the love and care you have shown me. Thank you to Ronnie who has been my sister for (omg) nearly 30 years. Thank you always to Nicola. And thank you to my friends, without whom I would be less than I am, and who are my family too. Love to you all on Family Is Good Day.