Though not of the same blood
And not of the same place
It always felt as if I were one of her brood

Holidays always remembered
Newspaper articles clipped and shared
Of events that transpired
Truly concerned about their impact
On myself and those close to me

Arguing like members of the same clan
Even though I was family by ceremony
Blessed at the special times
As a child that needs a special touch
Unique and all their own

Times both good and bad
Defines the bond and relationship
Of our multipart commune
Even though the elements are so diverse
They mesh, like pieces of a puzzle
Whose solution awaits the final piece
Clumsy and awkward at times
But functional nonetheless

I am glad I am a part of the inner circle
Created at its beginning by love and care
And continues for new generations to make their way

06/10/2002