There is nothing like the full embrace of a family. Especially a big one. Mine expands across the entire world. Many of them are in Senegal and America. Some are in France, Italy and Spain. To think that I could land in any continent and have family to call is so comforting.

The word family, to me, includes my parents, siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. It even includes friends that have been an important beneficial factor in my life.

Family no matter what size or shape is known as those always there to love and support you. Family is made up of those wanting to help you grow to be the best you can be. A family doesn't always have to be big. There are certain occasions that family can't help but show up for!

Graduation is one of the most relatable and recent events at the moment. It could be kindergarten, high school or college. It could even be graduating levels in gymnastics or karate. Family will do the most to show their support. Whether they physically attend the celebration or not, you know they're happy and hope the best for you. At your best moments, you receive texts, cards, emails and calls congratulating you on all your hard work. You get to hear how proud everyone is of you. I don't know about you, but that motivates me to do even more great things in my life! Let's not forget about the gifts. We all pretend to be surprised and bashful about accepting them. As graduates, we thank you gift-giving-family! It doesn't have to be money and material things. Just spending the time to make or organize something in our honor is one of the greatest tributes. We appreciate you!

Another life event that family really turns up for is a union of two people in love. I'm sure you've seen movies where the whole family is doing the Cupid shuffle or the electric slide at the end of the wedding scene. Everyone's delighted and grateful to have loved ones near. I haven't experienced this phenomenon yet because I have yet to attempt to the feat of marriage. When I do, I imagine my family to be supportive in my choice and joyous to see much joy in me. Imagine them to be just as proud as they were at the graduation ceremonies and parties.

I'm reality, life is not just made up of fortunate events. There are hard times. You could be grieving or hurting in some indistinguishable way. Reaching out to a family member is one of the best things for you. It doesn't have to be a parent. Extending out a hand and feeling the comfort of another is one of the greatest aspects of family. Family is that foundation that lets you stand on your two feet and walk tall. They're able to give you words of kindness, wisdom and faith to help you in times of need. Has a family member ever reached out to you when you need it most? Have you ever wondered how did they know? It's because they're family in some way or another.

It's during these moments that you truly stop and think about how grateful you are to have all these people connected to you. It's hard to put into words. It's hard to describe that feeling of acceptance and embrace. It's as if all their good intentions wrap around you to carry you through to your next journey.

It's that moment when your family looks into your eyes and says, "I'm proud of you." The sense of pride and fulfillment overflow in your chest. The tears may even well up. You feel your heart beat strong with the support of your true heart. Your family.