5/28/09

Siblings


My mother and her sister M grew up in a very large family. They married young. One lived close to her nucular family in the city. The other on a farm without running water nor electricity. Needless to say their experiences in adulthood were very different. One travelled extensively, was loved by two faithful husbands and developed a wonderful sense of self-worth. The other, despite long hours working six days a week, did not get ahead, had a troubled marriage and was strangely very dependent. They lived thousands of miles away from each other but kept close through letters. In the last two years, their circumstances have allowed them to see each other every day and be companions again. The one drives and organises their social life. The other weeds the flower beds, tidies the house and runs the errands. They are fiercely loyal to each other but at the same time very frank and candid.
I have been blessed with two wonderful sisters and a brother. One passed away much too soon. She was the common denominator for all the siblings in the family and we each miss her dearly. My brother and I share a mutual respect for each other despite vastly different lifestyles. My eldest sister who spent most of her teenage years babysitting us, has become my loyal friend. We call each other and laugh our heads silly. We share indiscretions and fix the world. We are as different as night and day. No matter. The blood we share is thicker than any superficial difference. Their association blesses my life each day just as my mother's does with her sister.
How does having a sister bless your life? What role has your brother played in your life? What does your sister trigger in you?

3 comments:

Janine said...

I love the story of your mom and her sister, and I'm glad to see the relationship with your sister.

Those are good questions that you've asked - and I think I will ponder them

Bunny said...

Oh, Bonnie, our moms would yell very loudly if they knew that this photo was posted here. You have such a wonderful way with words-it makes me envious that I don’t have a sister – I have missed so much.
Bunny xx

mom/Janet said...

Your Mother's Day post and now this one has made me think about my relationships. What kind of sister am I and what kind of sister and brothers do I have. I'd like to talk about them to you and then you write something up about them. You're good with words without being critical.