Family. For many this word means different things. The family unit has changed much over the period of time. Family structure varies in different cultures, different languages, and different degrees of relationships.

Even bible stories describe different views of people in close relationships with each other. They include stories of abuse, stories of dedication, and stories of economic as well as emotional bonds.

Each article in this month's issue of Response Magazine focuses on different varieties of families from across the United States: single-parent families, grandparents raising grandchildren, military families and other family units.

All of the articles are very interesting. One such story is about Cameron Kempson and her ten year old daughter, Hayley, of Asheville, North Carolina.

Not all children get to live in a multi-generation setting like Hayley – But the most important lesson she's learned is: Being respectful to everyone and everything. This she has learned from watching and seeing people who act this way.

Though Cameron has a vast support of friends, often it's the United Methodist Church or other church groups that she calls on for help.

One such place is the Brooks-Howell Home in Asheville. It is a home for retired ministers and missionaries. Rev. Will and Mrs. Agnes Rogers (Rev. Cy Rogers Parents) lived there for a number of years.

Cameron recalls many happy times there as a child, playing and talking with the residents while her father tended to business at the home. Now she and Hayley continue to visit. Often after they leave, they find money hidden in their pockets by residents so they can buy groceries or pay a bill.

Cameron has founded a non-profit organization called LightShare. This involves families and senior adults who are burdened by cultural, economic, or health issues. LightShare offers an after school tutoring/mentoring program for children. Also, they have a community Thanksgiving Meal, a fall festival and many other events and activities.

With all the help from communities, churches, and organizations – it indeed does take a village to accomplish the work of serving God and serving neighbors and families during the ups and downs of life.

Thanks to everybody!

Excerpt taken from several articles in November 2009 Response Magazine.