Relationships evolve over time. Whether for better or worse, the progression is natural. When it comes to family, the evolution often mirrors our age and maturity.
Parents and grandparents are often the apple of every child's eye. They possess superhero-esque qualities and are viewed as infallible. Incapable of mistakes and perfect in character, if you will.
As teenagers, a transition to being "misunderstood" by these same authority figures takes place. We are unaware of how desperately we need their guidance and perceive their altruistic motives as selfish and spiteful.
Upon entering adulthood, one gains the ability to see family members untainted by prejudice and presumption - as people rather than personas. A double-edged sword, this new-found truth can either be one of life's greatest rewards or largest disappointments.
Aaron and I have had several conversations regarding recent revelations about those whom we love. The facade of perfection shattered by gross flaws in character. Old wounds allowed to dictate the response to an event. The refusal to forgive. The inability to see a situation through the other's eyes. Defiance and apathy masked by excuses.
Yet there are those whom we now admire all the more. Those that reveal their internal struggles but strive to conquer them. Who remain the same behind closed doors as in public. We are thankful for these role models and aspire to imitate their path as we begin to plan for our future family.
We want our children to recognize not only our imperfections, but our constant quest to have pure hearts, minds, and actions.
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