ProWritersHub Contest – Week 6 | Topic 1: Getting help from extended family members – My story

_{Published on August 20, 2022}

In communal societies or settings, the responsibility of nurturing children, protecting wives and supporting men as they grow their families is a collective effort of all members of the extended family. These consist of the grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews etc.

_{Image of extended family members from Pexels}

The elderly members of the extended family are usually saddled with the responsibility of overseeing the affairs of the younger children while their parents are away. Morals and strong cultural values are inculcated in these children through storytelling and chastisement. Wives, on the other hand, are given enough gifts, as well as physical and emotional support to help them settle in as new brides or cope with the challenges that come with childbirth. Of course, the men are not left out as they continue to receive immeasurable support as they journey through life.

The extended family in a typical African society acts as a mediator when there is a conflict that involves a member of the family. The elders set up meetings where they invite the affected parties and try to settle the differences amicably.

In situations where there is a financial constraint, a member of the extended family can step in to assist. Though members of my extended family — both young and old — live far apart, the distance has not limited them from offering their help and assistance even when there was no immediate need for them.

In my family, one will agree that the needs of all the children are usually catered for by just any of the adults available. From the clothes they wear, the food they eat, the educational materials they need and any other relevant thing that supports their growth. One time an uncle of mine who heard that I had gained admission into the university volunteered to pay my acceptance fees. Another aunty currently sponsored my school fees. Whenever any of my cousins visit, they either leave behind foodstuffs or money. Also, my parents help their children and everyone else when there is a problem, especially those that are concerned with legal and medical aspects.

_{Images from Pexels}

One may wonder if these people who make up my family are living in affluence but let me burst your bubbles. None of them is “stinking rich”. They are just average farmers, civil servants, employees or self-employed people.

The love and sincere interest my extended family members have for the growth of each other, my family inclusive, is commendable. It grows my love and respect for them daily. One interesting to note is that God in heaven sees all these sacrifices they make, and has never stopped rewarding them bountifully.

Can I survive without their assistance?
In a communal society, one cannot fail to admit the relevance of the extended family. From the points raised above, it is only evident that everyone will need them at one point in their lives. I am no exception.