Family

As a family, the Docter clan has been tried and tested and, I believe, grown over the past month. It started with my dad approaching the possible end of his battle with prostate cancer. (I say "possible end" because only God knows the whole picture.) I have spent many hours, most often without children around, with my mom and dad and brothers and sisters-in-law. We have found ourselves taking over the corner of the hospital hallway. We have found ourselves crowding into a tiny private room, with my dad as the centerpiece. We have found ourselves gathering in the living room of my parent's cozy house just hanging out.

Our conversations have been memorable; I believe it is because of my dad. He has shared more with us than ever before. He has become more of a spiritual head of our house the past month. Relationships have been discussed, reconciled and are being mended. We have had unforgettable moments of prayer and scripture reading.

Our family has come together. We have been in constant contact for support and discussion and an ear to hear. It is wonderful knowing someone else, who is going through this, is only a phone call away.

The point I want to make is that I love my family dearly. They all mean so much to me. Right now, in this stage of my life, besides my Super Whitey and my boys' hugs, they are what I need. Among other things, I need Bret's confidence and Erin's medical expertise; I need Brad & Anne-Marie's practicality; I need Blake's laugh and seeing his girls run around; I need Bryan's self-assurance; I need Brandon's presence & Liz' phone calls. (I also need more of Aunt Alvina's muffins!)

I am not sure if I have actually conveyed my message; maybe this is just something that will be only felt by me, not being able to be expressed to the fullest. I am just thankful for the family I have, even if bickering and bitterness are around, even if we are somewhat dysfunctional. These people are mine, and I am so blessed to have them in my life. We all have our quirks, but we also have many superb characteristics. We are all different, but we are also one, one unit. No matter what, we have each other. We are blood, and that means a great deal to me. Love and loyalty and the ability to stand with, beside and for one another is what, I believe, we are.

I would say to you, the reader, to make the most of your own family. Don't be afraid to approach the hard subjects; admit your wrong and ask for forgiveness; let go of bitterness; talk it out. And most importantly, not only love your family, but like them too.