Wellness
Linda Manwarren | Chair , Wellness Committee , ARTA
Musings about Family
What does “ family ” mean to you ? The word family came into the English language during the fifteenth century from the Latin word famulus , meaning household . Over time , our understanding of family has changed . The Government of Canada now defines a family as a group of two or more persons ( one of whom is the householder ) related by birth , marriage , or adoption who live together . Some individuals define family as relatives who share their home . Others consider blood relatives near and far as family , while still others view their beloved circle of friends or their pets as family members .
I believe the shared love , commitment , and support found in all these groups are key . Which brings me to what I call my “ family of the heart ,” another very important type of family . This broad perspective on the word family is important to me largely because my biological family is spread far and wide , and I am married without children .
The interdependence or linking of lives that is a hallmark of families everywhere is evident in my family of the heart and demonstrates the dynamics of a strong family . There is a commitment to each other as shown in an investment of time and energy . A genuine affection guides communication so that it is positive and affirming , and yet challenges me to grow when necessary . When stress or crises occur , we pull together and support each other physically , emotionally , and spiritually . Our guiding values and commitments to important causes come into alignment . Notably , our recent experiences with the pandemic and its restrictions on social interactions heighten our awareness of the importance of family , however you define it .
I know my life is richer through my family of the heart .
Linda Manwarren took retirement in steps with the final one in 2019 from St Mary ’ s University as a practicum advisor . She loves having more time to spend with her heart family as well as the time to travel to the biological one .
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