The first day of our lives begins with our family. The rest of our life depends on our family. Its strengths and weaknesses begin shaping our destinies even before our first breath of air. Like a painters canvass, gently altering its surface till the point of perfection.

After making our entrance we take our place and quietly begin to act out our roles. Roles which have been transcribed from generations of surviving family culture and tradition. A tradition built on hard work and honest living. A culture of people living and loving, caring, sharing, and growing.

The day comes when we take our first step. The awkward step toward independence. When we are charged with the task of applying the knowledge and training we received from the family to our individual life desitgns. Cautiously we adjust our experiences, while referring to the master plan. Sometimes consciously reminiscing about Aunt Marie giving us a little helpful tip or Aunt Jimmy telling us that one about the lady with the horses head.

Again we take our places. This time armed with the ammunition necessary for a family soldier, preparing the way for future recruits. In our quest for worldly goods and our fight with lifes temptations we must always remember that a family's nourishment is dependent on every member of the tree. We're all important.

  Sandra Foster