“What we’re about to do at the courthouse is a legal matter,” Robbie said. “But this is a family matter. And I believe the family agreement should come first. This family did not form in the traditional sequence. However, it formed intentionally.”
“What does that mean?” Madison asked, brow creasing.
“That we chose Grady to be part of our family,” Robbie said.
Madison grinned. “Oh, yeah, I understand now.”
Robbie began to read.
“We, the undersigned, enter into this agreement freely and without reservation. We promise the following:
Item one. ‘Love. We promise to love one another no matter what obstacles or hardships come our way.’
Item two. ‘Presence. We promise to show up to any event that’s important to a member of our family.’ Examples are school events, science fairs, recitals, soccer games on television.” Robbie stopped, looking over at Grady. “I’ve become aware that in the past you’ve sacrificed watching soccer games so that I can watch a documentary. In the future, I’ll be as generous as you have been.”
“Thanks, bud. I appreciate it,” Grady said.
“Item three. ‘Family first. We promise to eat dinner together as often as possible, even when schedules are complicated.’” Robbie looked up. “I didn’t say this specifically, but, on weekends, schedules permitting, we’ll have breakfast together too. Either muffins or bagels are acceptable. The data’s clear that families who share meals communicate better and experience higher rates of emotional well-being.”
“I could have told you that,” I said.
“What about bacon?” Madison asked. “I love bacon.”
“Bacon is also acceptable, but not necessary for our agreement,” Robbie said.
“Okay, as long as you don’t forget,” Madison said.
“I never forget anything,” Robbie said, before continuing.
“Item four. ‘Laughter. We agree to laugh as much as possible, not at one another but with one another.’” He glanced up from his paper. “Laughter has been scientifically linked to reduced cortisol levels and strengthened bonds. Also, it’s simply enjoyable.”
“Amen,” I said.
“Item five. ‘Honesty. We will always tell the truth, even when it makes us feel afraid or vulnerable.’
Item six. ‘Loyalty. We promise to be loyal and protective of one another.’
Item seven. ‘Food quirks. We acknowledge that some members of the family have specific requests when it comes to food and agree to accommodate said family member when needed.’ An obvious one is grilled cheese sandwiches without crusts.”
“Got it,” Grady said.
“I should take a moment to thank you, Grady, for understanding this quirk of mine and being open to learning the Esme Taylor technique for grilled cheese.”
“You’re welcome. Thanks for acknowledging that,” Grady said. “I feel seen.”
“I can see you,” Madison said.
“I see you too, Sweet Pea,” Grady said, chuckling.
“Item eight. ‘Courtesy. We agree to give advance notice of schedule changes or any deviance from our normal routine.’” Robbie hesitated for a second. “Obviously, this one’s for me too. Given my anxiety around change.”
“We’ll do our best,” Esme said. “But you must remember that some things are out of our control.”
“Duly noted,” Robbie said.
“And finally, item nine. ‘Gratitude. We promise to remember how grateful we are for family and to say it out loud often.’ Now, is there anything anyone would like to add to the list?”
“Yes,” I said. “Dreams. We agree to support one another’s dreams and goals without criticism or judgment.”
