Family

I grew up with a small extended family but a large immediate one. My parents’ lives had been shaped by the hardships of the Great Depression and the tragedy of World War II. Their own parents died young, and the branches of our family tree were scattered across distant parts of the world. By the time I was born, most of my grandparents had passed away, and the few aunts, uncles and cousins I had lived far from us. The gatherings and connections many people take for granted were largely absent from my childhood. Yet I never felt deprived. As one of five siblings, I belonged to a busy, lively household where there was always someone to play with, argue with, laugh with or learn from. Our home was full of energy, noise and adventure. Looking back, I treasure those years and the memories they created. There is little I would change about that upbringing.

When the next generation arrived, my parents embraced their new role with enthusiasm. Between their five children came eighteen grandchildren, and they delighted in each one. It sometimes seemed they had raised five children simply to earn the reward of such a large family. My own children have enjoyed what I missed: grandparents who were present in their lives and cousins who became close companions. I remind them how fortunate they are to have such a rich extended family. But it also reminds me that family connections are gifts that grow stronger across generations.