What really makes up a family? Are we bound by social norms when defining a family? When someone mentions a family, the picture of a mum and dad with kids rushes to mind. However, this is not always the case. A family can be made up of single parents, same-sex or opposite-sex couples, with or without children (or pets). Family members do not have to be genetically related such as fostered or adopted families come to mind. A person can be part of multiple families as a group of close friends can be considered family to the person. The extended family may also make part of a larger family: aunts, uncles, grandparents and cousins. One can feel as if in a family when interacting in groups he/she works with and is engaged in.
Hence, it can be said that family is an abstract, intrinsic feeling, where one feels loved, accepted, nurtured and guided. In my opinion, the best definition of a family out there is in Lilo and Stitch: “Family means no one gets left behind or forgotten.
-Danica Cassar