The Way We Function: My Family By: Kaeleigh Sutherland Class: ENGL062 Instructor: Michele Griskey-Watson Everyone in a family has their, own role to play. Each of us has different strengths and weaknesses than our siblings or even our parents at times. These qualities that make us different, somehow bring us closer together. We challenge one another, we teach each other to be patient and kind. Parents try to guide their children in the way they want them to go, some parents just don't care at all, leaving without a word. Those that are left behind have to pick up the pieces. For years, I never understood how someone could leave like that. As I grew up, I watched my father go to work most days before the sun came up and return just before dark. He did everything he could to provide a safe stable home, teaching us that family is everything. My brother who is three years older than me set the bar high. He was a wonderful role model that led by example. He would get up as dad was heading out the door, grab bowls out for cereal, gathered our coats and backpacks to sit at the bottom of the stairs; he taught me how to tie my shoes, right there. The years went by, everyone doing their part to keep the house clean and homework, done. We always remembered to make time for each other, enjoying the little things. Every weekend we had family game night. Dad was always bringing home tiny knick-knacks or toys. We would create new board games and even made an eye-spy jar, which still sets on the counter in my father's kitchen. Time; it has flown by. I am now 29, with three boys of my own. I still look to my father for advice and wise counsel he once said; "the days will come and go; children will grow up as you grow old. Cross-words will be had; take heed in what you say. For we all know fighting between family is inevitable but the outcome is never the same."-Steve Sutherland “work hard- you will have what you need.” “listen to understand- don’t just listen to hear.” “be compassionate” “take pride in all you do- but don’t be arrogant” “speak the truth- it will never let you down” “stand strong for all you believe” (These are just a few things that have been imprinted in my mind, guiding my moral compassion.) As you see roles, we play the lessons we learned. Become the morals we hold to in high regard, is the mold that binds the family together so we function as a team, in this dysfunctional world.
