Family Is Meant To Hold Poem by Vanessa Dizon Alvarez

Family should be shelter,
not a storm behind your back.
They're meant to help you carry weight,
not whisper when you crack.

They're meant to see your struggle,
and offer hands, not shame.
Not sit and watch you stumble,
then gossip with your name.

Love is not a title—
it's the way they show they care.
It's checking in when no one does,
it's choosing to be there.

I've seen the ones who vanish
when the road begins to bend.
But real ones walk beside you—
not just show up at the end.

So if they talk behind you,
but never lift you high,
remember: blood is not enough
to justify a lie.

Family should be kindness,
not a mirror full of blame.
They're meant to help you rise again,
not tarnish your good name.