By Enigheni Iwori
Family and Friends: These are two words that constantly feature together and point to community and belonging, but do they mean the same thing? It is often said that family are the people you do not choose while friends are the people you choose.
Typically, the family is the first social unit one is exposed to at birth and is defined by blood, marriage or legal ties. The connection is permanent and comes with responsibility. A friend on the other hand is someone with whom you have found to share similarities or passions, find interesting or just fit. The right ones keep you grounded and steady.
An interesting twist is that sometimes your friends become family. They help you through difficult moments of life, celebrate your wins and stay present every step of the way. However, family members can also become friends when the relationship goes beyond an obligation and moves to deliberate choice of who you are not just because you are related or share a surname.
The goal is not to nurture one relationship at the expense of the other but to have a well-rounded community of people who show up for you genuinely with real love regardless of blood ties.
Today, try to appreciate your family and friends – the ones who have seen you in every way but still choose you. Make a call, send a message or better still pay a visit.
Movies of the Week
· Love Later (YouTube): An emotional story that follows two parents who give love a second chance as they deal with grief. Produced by Biodun Stephen, the movie explores themes of redemption, personal growth, communication and goes on to show that family is defined by choice not just blood.
· The Bloom After (YouTube): Starring Bolaji Ogunmola and Daniel Etim-Effiong, this romantic drama shows a woman who devotes her life to a man and marriage that did not serve her in any way. Did she lose herself or realize her self-worth? Find out in this movie that focuses on themes of self-discovery, divorce and the struggle of starting over.
See you next week.
*Enigheni can be contacted via ienigheni@gmail.com
