The common expression, "Blood is thicker than water," translates to the idea that the relationship within a family is the strongest bond a person can have. The older I get and the more I experience life, I've come to learn that this expression is not accurate and certainly does not apply to everyone.

Of course, there are tight net families who, I'm sure, do have a stronger bond than others they have met due to their circumstances. Though not everyone's circumstances are the same, and not everyone feels that closeness and trust to those they share a bloodline with, compared to those they have chosen to become friends with and gone through life with.

Personally, I feel so extremely lucky as I have amazing family members who I love and trust, as well as amazing friends who I love and trust just as much.

My friends and I have been through so much and would go through so much more for one another, and it's created such a bond that I know I can trust them and rely on them no matter what.

The friends you find in life are truly the family you have chosen. Many people will agree with me when saying that friends of theirs will be the first to come to your rescue in any situation.

Just because someone does not share the same blood with you, it does not mean they are not family. My friends are my family, and I am so grateful to have such a huge support system in my life.

We all have the power to choose who we surround ourselves with. If you were not born into a family who treasures closeness, that does not mean you cannot find that strong bond in life. We form our own relationships and create our own family.

Blood isn't always thicker than water. It's all about who's there for you or not.