I've heard the phrase "Family is the most important," many times throughout my life. I really do agree with this statement. Even though there may be members of your family that are not in your life, you always have a family. These are the 5 things I have learned about family throughout my life.

1. They love you

Love is what makes a family. Sometimes they might not do something you like or you do not do something they like, but deep down they will always love you. You have no idea how much.

2. Family is not always by blood/marriage

It is very true that you're friends can be your family. You do not have to be related to be considered a family. I know that my best friend is like my sister and that my mom and my brother's feel the same way. Other times, people may not have any blood relatives that they feel close with, but they have a group of friends that become the family that they do not have.

3. They may embarrass you at times, but that's a part of life.

I can't think of a lot of teenagers who aren't embarrassed of their parents in public. Soon you realize that they are just being themselves. The parents that may embarrass you in public, they have a great sense of humor that you will appreciate. The brothers who tease you about having a boyfriend, they will be there to protect you when you get hurt. And the little sister who hangs around you, she looks up to you and wants to be like you.

4. They will stand by you

Families protect each other. Sometimes even a distant family will come together if someone is really hurting. No one ever wants to see their family in pain

5. You will always fit

Family has no age limit, religion or qualifications. You can never be too young or too old. No matter what you're mood is, you still have a family. If you are judged by them for things you can not change, then they are not really your family. You are never not good enough.

As time goes on, you may come to appreciate your family more and more. They are a hidden gift that can go un-noticed. For me, I will remember laughter and playing card games. I will remember how they are there for me when I need them and that they will always be with me.