Our kids have A LOT of cousins, some that live just down the street and some 4 hours away. And every time that they get together, there is something so special about cousins and the relationship that they are born into and the one that develop over time. A relationship that I plan to nourish for many years to come. Here‘s why...
They act as replacement siblings.
Cousins are like siblings that don't annoy you as much. If your children are anything like my husband, then they may not be lucky enough to have any siblings. But with the help of cousins, those long boring summer days and family parties can be made much more exciting with the help of a cousin. And for those that do have siblings, cousins can be the extra sibling that they always wish they had. They're like having all of the benefits of a sibling, without actually having to spend your whole time with them, live with them, and share every single toy that you ever get with them.
They are a child's first best friend (outside of siblings).
Cousins are like having all of the benefits of siblings, except that you don't have to live with them. They share secrets, never truly judge you, always look forward to seeing you, and usually share the same family values and memories. You can be completely yourself around them without the fear of being looked at as weird or different. And there's a certain level of comfort found in hanging out with someone who has the same wit as you, but has just the right amount of differences to make it more exciting than merely spending time with your siblings. They become role models and confidants, being the sibling you never got or the best friend you wish you had. Talking with you, laughing with you, and giving you tough loving when you need it the most. Basically, having a cousin is like having a forever friend in your corner through whatever life throws your way. It makes me laugh to think about all of the funny childhood memories that they will someday share - you don't get that with just any friend.
They protect each other.
It's no secret that when kids get together (especially our band of boys), that they will bicker, fight, and tattletale. They do have cousin rivalry after all. They like to tease each other and try stealing the specific toy that each other is playing with. But it's also no secret that they would protect and defend each other if necessary. They'll always have each other's backs - forever. And there is something just so comforting in seeing those moments of protection balance those moments of fighting.
They just get it.
Ultimately, they're from the same family tree. They get where you come from. They've been there through family celebrations. They have the same grandparents, and even great grandparents. They understand the specific dysfunctional aspects of your family and it doesn't bother them one bit because it's their family history too. Let's face it, our kids are going to complain about us at one time or another. They'll vent to each other, maybe, but but I know for sure they'll also have the option to be able to vent to their cousins. It's nice the know that they will be someone to confide and lean on in tough family times. Always there to make lifelong memories with at any time.
They keep life interesting.
Children bored? Just call up the cousins. I don't know about you, but I have seen my children's cousins transform their days from seemingly ordinary days into an entertaining day of adventures. Always keeping them on their toes through each one. It's just instantly comforting to hang out with people who enjoy the same things as you.
They love you unconditionally.
Their blood. That means that their bond is strong and unbreakable. Sure, they're going to get into tiffs with you every now and then, but the love you share with them is immeasurable. Because they're family - and family is everything. And even you both drift apart as you grow up, there will forever be an understanding that they would do anything for you.
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