This is a guest blog post written by my sister M
This is the first time I have written something for my little bother’s blog. Yes, you read that right — my brother who goes by “BHD” uses the reference “your little bother” when he closes his email messages to me. The phrase dates back to when we lived under the same roof and, let’s say, we had many sibling arguments.
We both grew up. He is not a bother to me, but is a cherished friend. His twin brother, as well as my five other brothers, are also very close.
It is time to recognize and thank my brother “BHD” and his twin “J” for their steady, complete, and enduring love and affection, their help and sincere support throughout my life. They are great uncles to my children and great “great uncles” to my grandchildren.
Each of them inspire me to be better. To be a good person. To live life completely. To give back in return for all of the blessings bestowed upon me.
I am truly blessed with these great men in my life who lead, let’s say “naturally.” With grace, dignity, and downright beauty, they do not talk about taking action to resolve the world’s problems — they just do it.
BHD is a marvelous caregiver with the biggest heart I have ever seen. He has deep faith that comforts the most troubled souls. His dedication to caring for our uncle and aunt as they aged and became infirmed was legendary. A true demonstration of love. His commitment to caring for his husband for the duration of his illness and putting up with a tremendous strain throughout those awful months is a testament to the characteristics he possesses that I have long admired: persistence, patience, “unflusteredness,” and enduring love.
J, the ultimate professional, carried out a very difficult career with tremendous dignity and stature. I am still amazed how my little brother, the jock football team captain, grew up to be such a great man who has won respect from political leaders in our country and around the world. And today in his retirement, he is working to help through direct action to resolve suffering, pain, malnutrition, and illness — as he says, “one small community at a time.”
Both of my brothers will celebrate another birthday tomorrow. My gift is that I get to celebrate them every.single.day.
With love for my brothers, happy birthday and thank you for being the men you are.
Sister M
Heard at a meeting at work, “that ring isn’t right.” Comment directed to me by someone I don’t know that well before the meeting began (as people were entering and taking a seat.)
Life is short: show those you love how you love them!