‘Family’ is a really broad word. It of course describes our immediate family, into which we were born through our mother’s womb. We have a real blood connection and birthright to be there, and unless a relative passes away or gives us up or runs away, we are connected to these people our whole lives whether we like it or not. We might feel naturally close to them or feel like strangers that happen to know one another very well. But either way, no matter how much love there is or isn’t, they are there by default.
And then there are the people we choose to become part of our lives. That we bring closer to our hearts through a fascination and curiosity. It is a lovely thing because we get to hand-pick all of them, like delicious, refreshing apples off the tree. We grow closer to these people and start to love them, as if we have known them all of our lives. They are there for all of our birthdays and special concerts and occasions, and will listen to us rant about the same mini dramas all the time because we do the same for them. They bake cookies with us, show us things about ourselves, and love us for exactly who we are. These people are also family.
I have found that kind of family here in New York. They are this marvelous, loving group of artists/musicians/hippies that have taken me in. I am never a super regular member of their hang-outs, as I am a Harlem-dweller and they are, for the most part, Brooklyn-ites. But they make me feel so welcomed every time I see them and it is always as if no time has passed whatsoever. I know them all through mutual friends. Many of us are musicians, and we often go to see each others’ shows in the city to support one another. We play in each others’ bands, help collect tips, or make a crazy mosh pit up front and bring up the energy. There’s always this vibe of support and love that is indescribable and just so beautiful.
And I feel so lucky because tonight we are having an acoustic Thanksgiving potluck show at the house where many of these friends live. We are all gonna sit on the floor by candlelight, eat food and listen to each other play music totally unplugged. I can’t wait for the magic to start.
Thank you, New York, for giving me this gift. I owe you big time.
Love,
Sara
