The Benefits of Extended Family Members and How They Influence Our Lives

As an individual born into an adopted family, I have had limited contact with my immediate family. Instead, the relationship I have with extended family members has been profound and meaningful due to shared ethical values and principles. While my immediate family's values may differ, my connection with these relatives has helped me stay true to my own ethics and beliefs.

Extended families play a crucial role in our lives, offering a different set of influences compared to immediate family members. This article explores the benefits and positive impacts of extended family members, highlighting ways in which they can support and guide us.

Why Extended Family Members Matter

Extended family members often bring a wealth of experience, diverse perspectives, and unique cultural insights that can shape our personal growth and development. Here are some key benefits of having extended family:

Shared Values and Ethics: Extended family members, especially those who have not been as closely involved in our everyday lives (as is often the case with adopted individuals), can offer a different set of values and practical ethical advice. This can be particularly valuable for individuals who may feel disconnected from traditional family dynamics. Support Network: When immediate family is strained or doesn't share the same foundational values, extended family members can provide a strong support network. They can offer emotional, financial, and practical support during challenging times. Diverse Perspectives: Extended family often includes members from different generations, backgrounds, and locations. This diversity can enrich our lives by exposing us to a wide range of experiences, ideas, and worldviews, enhancing our personal and professional lives.

Personal Experiences and Insights

My journey with extended family members has been both enlightening and enriching. As someone who was adopted at birth, I have not shared many early memories with my immediate family. Instead, my connection with extended family members has been built on a foundation of mutual respect and shared values.

One of the primary reasons I find extended family members valuable is their ability to provide a different set of values and ethical guidance. My immediate family, while loving, does not always adhere to the same principles that I prioritize, such as working hard, doing things well without sacrificing others, and maintaining honesty. These values are a cornerstone of my identity and how I operate in the world, and my extended family has been instrumental in nurturing these principles.

The Role of Ethical Influence

As someone with a strong set of personal values, the influence of ethical behavior from my extended family has been pivotal in shaping my character. For instance, my extended family includes individuals who emphasize the importance of community service and social responsibility. This includes volunteers who work for animal conservation, search and rescue, and helping those in need. These ethical leaders serve as role models, inspiring me to contribute to society in meaningful ways.

Volunteering and Community Service

My involvement in various volunteering activities is a direct result of the positive influence of my extended family. I am currently part of a zoological organization that works to conserve aquatic exhibits, a search and rescue team, and a maritime archaeological group. I also help deliver meals to the needy during holidays and support recovery efforts for addicts and alcoholics. These activities align closely with the ethical values instilled in me by my extended family. They remind me of the importance of community involvement and ethical responsibility.

Work-Life Balance

While I hold a degree in Information Technology and a peace officer certification, I choose not to pursue a career that aligns with the questionable ethics of my immediate family. Instead, I prioritize work that reflects my values. I work part-time and dedicate 15 hours a week to volunteering, which includes a 250-mile round trip to two zoological organizations. This lifestyle allows me the freedom to pursue my ethical values and contribute to society in a meaningful way.

Conclusion

Extended family members can play a significant role in our lives, offering us different values, perspectives, and ethical guidance. For those who may feel disconnected from their immediate family, the support and influence of extended family can be invaluable. They can help us stay true to our values, provide a support network, and enrich our lives with diverse experiences and insights.

Key Takeaways

Extended family members provide a support network and different ethical guidance. Shared values and perspectives from extended family can help shape our identity and character. Community service and volunteering can be influenced by the ethical values imparted by extended family members.

Understanding and embracing the role of extended family can lead to a more fulfilling and ethically aligned life.