He's always been told that blood is thicker than water, but his life has been a contradiction to this age-old adage. His blood ain't blood, and his family ain't family. At least, not in the classical sense.

He has people in his life who are related by blood, but they're strangers to him. They share a common ancestry, but their bond is nonexistent. They're missing in action, physically and emotionally. Meanwhile, he has others who aren't connected to him by DNA, but they're the ones who've been there through thick and thin.

They're the ones who've seen him at his worst and still choose to be around him. They're the ones who've lifted him up when he was falling apart. They're his true family, his chosen blood.

But society doesn't always understand this. They see blood as the ultimate tiebreaker, the definitive measure of family. They don't realize that family is more than just a biological connection. It's a bond, a choice, a commitment.

As he navigates this complex web of relationships, he's come to a profound realization. His blood ain't blood, but his heart is full. He's found his tribe, his true family, and they're not bound to him by DNA.

In the end, it's not about who's related to whom. It's about who shows up, who cares, and who loves unconditionally. That's the true meaning of family. And that's glorious.

~X~