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I'm the kind of person who doesn't like to miss family events. So last weekend when I had to miss my cousins wedding it really bothered me. The wedding was on a Friday night and seven hours away; with nothing to do with my dog and limited time off, I had to opt out of attending. Granted, they are having a reception in Wisconsin this weekend that I will be able to attend; missing the actual event still bothered me.
It's a wedding; that's a major life event. It's one thing to miss a barbecue or a birthday party, but a wedding? I hated it. So it got me thinking of people who miss family member's major life events by choice or choose to have bad relationships with other family members. Missing celebratory life events or holding grudges hurts everyone involved whether they show it or not.
I love my family, as I'm sure most people do, so to have an important person in your life miss out on something that means so much to you hurts; and having somebody in your family mad at you or constantly fighting with you can't feel good. Attending events and being friends with your family is just another way to show that you care. I care, so hopefully I will stop beating myself up over missing my cousin's wedding after I can congratulate them in person.
I get that some families just don't get along, which I think is shame. I live close to most of my family and see the ones I don't live so close to pretty regularly. I can't imagine missing events that I could have attended, not seeing my family regularly, or fighting with them. I especially couldn't imagine disliking my family or my boyfriend's family.
I hear people all the time talking about how they can't stand their in-laws. I couldn't imagine having to live like that. My boyfriend and I live across the street from one of his sister's and I wouldn't have it any other way. His mom lives across town, and my parents and his other sister live within 10-15 miles of town. I love being able to throw together a cookout or walk across the street for a bonfire. I can't imagine avoiding family members or fighting with family constantly. Sure every family gets annoyed with one another, mine is no different, but I am very grateful I have such a good relationship with my family.
I hate that I had to miss my cousins wedding, but I will still be able to celebrate with them. For most people, once they have missed it, it's done with; no second chances. I think most families have people who need to start putting the other family members' feelings first so they can mend their relationships and enjoy their time together. Family will always be family, so make your time with them count.