Nature vs Nurture

Parents by definition are a father or mother; one who sires or gives birth to and nurtures an offspring but in my opinion, it's who raises you and nurtures you that fulfill the role, be it your biological parents or not.

Many disagree saying that blood is the ultimate connection but to me a bond is stronger. If you are raised by foster or adopted parents, relatives of friends from birth or a young age, they are grown to fulfill a parental role. Of course whether or not a child acknowledges them as their parents is a decision of their head and heart.

In another frame of mind, many children grow strong bonds with friends, relatives, neighbours etc. whilst still in the care of their biological parents. Some even acknowledge these "friends" to be "like parents" or "second parents".

In conclusion I think it's fair to say that there is a difference between your biological parents and your mum and dad. Nature automatically distributes the title of parents when a child is born, but the title of mum and dad must be earned by love, nourishment and compassion.