The definition of family

Re “DNA reveals secrets, lies,” Jan. 18

Is family about bloodlines, or is it about relationships?

As I researched my family, it became apparent that there was a propensity to roll in the hay first and marry second. Most of these marriages lasted for decades and produced stable family environments. In many cases, a third party stepped up to make an “honest woman” out of a pregnant spinster.

Children born of “outside” fathers are not necessarily evidence of debauchery. A so-called break in the bloodline should not be looked on as a moral failure by our ancestors. I suspect the millions of adopted children in this country would agree.

Your family is your support mechanism, not your DNA. Gramma giving Grampa the children he wanted (and needed to work the farm and be respected in the community) but perhaps could not produce may not have been a sin. It may have been an act of sacrifice.

Mike Post

Winnetka