Family VS Friends

Posted 4 years, 5 months, 3 weeks, 3 days, 5 hours, 35 minutes ago by Substantial

Me & Chelle

So lately, I’ve been doing A LOT, from finishing & promoting Sacrifice to getting ready to buy a house, work, family drama, etc. To say things have been hectic is an understatement. I’m not complaining but all of this has made me do a lot thinking and soul searching.

Although my family and I are closer now than we’ve ever been, there was a point of time that I considered my friends to be more of my family than some of my real family because of the time we spent together. But, with the exception of a few of my REAL friends, it seems that things have changed drastically. I spend more time with my family now then ever meanwhile folks who were like family to me when I was in NYC barely call me unless they need something. And they’re some folks here in the DMV (DC, Maryland, & Virginia) that I saw more when I was in NYC. Go figure!

Me, My nephew & my older brother. Basically I say all of this to say that it’s shown me the importance of true FAMILY. I use to think we used the word FRIEND too lightly but now I think we use the word FAMILY even more lightly because a lot of us have forgotten what it means. Think about it, when was the last time you broke bread with your family and it wasn’t a special occasion. The concept of family to some of us has almost become cliche.

My Uncle (the one that popped up in the back of that Japan vid on Youtube) has spent the last 17 years in prison and was recently released. Since he’s been home he’s taught me so much about the importance of family and he would know better than anyone because he went to prison because he protected himself, wife and children from someone that broke into their home. I use to think I’d do anything to protect some of my so-called friends like that but I realize it’s pointless to throw your life away over people who only care about what you can do for them. See real family will care and help even when it’s inconvenient, there’s nothing realer than that. They also will annoy the hell out of you and make you crazy truly with your best interest in mind. Only family does that.

My Sister Priscilla, Me, & Mom Anyway, I say all that to say that I’m thankful to have such a great family. We are anything but perfect but I wouldn’t trade them for no amount of money or success and especially not for folks who come and go like the seasons. It’s because of my family’s sacrifices that I am the man I am today.

So this is for: The Robinson’s, Hewlin’s, Reid’s, Davis’, Silver’s, and even my in-laws Etienne’s, Leger and all the other surnames that make up our FAMILY. It’s because of them that I’ve bared witness and experienced unconditional love.

Love Always,
Stan