There's that phrase - "Blood is thicker than water". Family bonds exist without a doubt, but does that have anything to do with genetics? Being adopted, I obviously don't have an impartial view to this idea…. so in my view - Family is a choice.
My siblings, aside from my brother were chosen by my parents but we are still a family regardless of blood ties. Are we close? - I am with my sister and my parents are my parents but I guess we would on average have about 8 conversations a year - My brothers, less. My sister, probably once a month. This is the family that I grew up with but as far as I am concerned, my family has grown.
I have been lucky enough to have met genuinely supportive people - Those people who I know if I had to, could call at 4am and they would be there for me without question. These people are a part of my family and I doubt I could choose a better one. I can't imagine not growing old with them and for each new person I meet who could potential be a part of this family - they all need to pass the "porch test". This is the test where you imagine yourself old, sitting on the porch in an old school rocking chair having a drink with those closest to you… does that person fit in?
Relationships take work but its worth it for those who you know are there for you.