National Siblings' Day

Monday, April 10, was National Siblings' Day. I am not sure when this day was created. I’ve only heard about it a few years ago, but I think it is a wonderful way to celebrate our brothers and sisters. As you probably know, if you’ve read any of my previous writings, I have ten siblings. I have eight brothers and two sisters. Two of my brothers have passed on.

We didn’t have a lot when we were growing up. Truly, all we had was each other. And my mother and father instilled that in my siblings and me from the moment we were born. They told us to always take care of each and to always look out for each other. And we have carried this with us into adulthood. I am proud of my brothers and sisters and the way that we come together when we need each other.

In late 2015 into early 2016, I made many trips to Big Lake to visit my brother Bootsie. He was battling cancer, and my son Elton and I wanted to be there for him as much as we were able to. Most of the time, when we were there, one or more of my other brothers would be there. And you know, we didn’t ever do anything extra special. We’d just watch TV or barbeque or just sit around the kitchen table and talk until we all got sleepy. But I think the most important thing was that we were all there together and that we were spending time together and making memories.

My brother Bootsie passed away just over a year ago, and losing him was very painful, and that pain is still very fresh. I miss him very, very much. I’ve learned that the loss of a sibling doesn’t make you love him any less. Instead, I’ve learned that I can cling to and hold dear all the things that remind me of him. When I look at his kids, I can see his face smiling back at me in theirs. If one of his favorite songs comes on the radio right when I am thinking of him, it warms my heart to know that sometimes the world seems to read my mind and gives me a sign that lets me know that my brother is still with me, even if I can’t see him.

During our meeting this past Saturday, another set of siblings came together and it was heart-warming to be a part of it. The Fay family from Del Rio surprised their brother Jerry for his birthday. It was great to be a part of it, to see all of these siblings coming together. Their love for each other shone brighter than the sun.
So no matter how annoying they may have been when you all were younger, your siblings are people who are irreplaceable in your life, so, every chance you get, let them know that you love them. 

Note: This blog appeared as an article in the 3/13/17 edition of the Kinney County Post.