When we think of the word “family” we often think of our blood relatives. We think about our parents and siblings. We cringe when we realize our family includes those aunts and uncles with opposing political views. We accept that our crazy hippy cousin is still considered family even if they believe in an alternative lifestyle. However, some of us may consider others as family.

If you have been adopted, orphaned, or your parents passed away too early, you may have an alternative idea of family. The definition of family is sharing a common ancestor, to so most people, family means the people who have your back through thick and thin. Your family can consist of you adopted parents or your friend’s family...