Originally published in the January 17, 2008 issue of The Evangel.
by Brenda Harris, FBC member
When Mike and I married over 35 years ago, I received an unexpected blessing--a loud, loving family of in-laws that included a mom and dad, 3 sisters, 3 grandparents, over 30 aunts and uncles, and cousins too numerous to count. What a bonus! Not only was I marrying the man of my dreams, but I was also becoming part of another solid, Christian family.
This past Christmas, 19 members of the Harris clan spent 3 days together, celebrating the holidays and our family's unique bond. While our nephew's wife serves in Iraq, we all doted on their two-year-old son Austin and enjoyed having four generations of the Harris clan--and loads of laughter--under the same roof. In 2006, we added our son-in-law, Stephanie's husband Justin, to the mix. This year, we'll add a new brother-in-law; next year, our niece will marry and expand the family once again. God continues to be gracious and we count our blessings.
Through the years, I have come to value and cherish the members of my Harris family. My mother-in-law, Bobbie, is truly a treasure and is a close, trusted friend and mentor for me. Papaw Red, Mike's dad, is a happy, active octogenarian who fills the void my own father left when he died 21 years ago. And all three of Mike's sisters are as dear to me as my own sister.
Our family isn't perfect but we're family--loving through good times and bad, forgiving and tolerating each other's imperfections, and laughing together because of an unbreakable bond. Thanks, Mike, for letting me share your family and your heritage.
