In an extended family, children grow up with grandparents, maybe even cousins and aunts. They are surrounded by love and nurturing. They learn early on how to socialize, share, and really care. Aging parents can contribute so much wisdom to the family unit. And deserve a place at the table.
The nuclear family unit is cold and selfish in many respects. Parents are left to fend for themselves, or worse, warehoused in isolation and neglect.
An extended family doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone lives in the same house. It means that everyone is available to lend support and encouragement, to teach.
My experiences are so much richer because of my Latina roots and the extended family I grew up in. I adored my grandparents and great-aunts.



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