A sense of family has always been very important to me; never more than now that I am a mother myself. This sense of belonging, loving, and freedom is apparently not always what you find in all families. I guess if you are lucky you get a glimpse of it here and there. But I know that not only am I lucky, I am blessed. I belong to a phenomenal family who taught me about love, life, friendship and trust.
I am not only talking about my mom dad and sister, but all my aunts, uncle,s and cousins.
When we say family, we mean the whole clan.
To me this family extends also to friends who became my family- the family I was not linked to by blood, but rather, by choice; but family none the less.
So when I went out in the world to find my partner to start my own branch of family, I knew it was imperative that they too have this sense.
Well, I hit the jackpot!
I could never have imagined that I would find Andi, and along with her, The Wierschs.
So on this, the birthday of their Pepa, I will take the time to thank him
for marrying Mema, having lots of kids, and teaching them about life and what was really important:
Family, love, respect, courage, beauty, acceptance, forgiveness, and all the simple things the world has to offer if you take the time to look.
Now, I never had the privilege of actually knowing Pepa, so how can I write this as if I did?
Well, I feel like i do, because he is alive in Mema and all of their kids and in their hearts.
I have met Pepa, through Mema's stories, Andi's memories, Stacey's sentimental tears, Nora's eyes, Cash's charm, Jodie's heart, Casey's bald head and smile, Cici's generosity, Linny's work ethic, and countless other little bits of his personality and love that shine on in his kids and grandkids and now the great grandkids.
I am lucky to at least enjoy him through his family.
Fantastic Job Pepa!
I know you are looking down on your clan and smiling, because you and Mema did an amazing job, and through your love the world will be a better place. Just imagine what kinds of greatness will come from all of us and our kids.
I am proud my girls are a part of your family.