Today I talked on the phone with my younger sister for an hour and a half. It had been a really long time since we’d done that and had a lot to catch up on. Our conversation ranged widely from our reviews of the new Harry Potter film to recipes and feeding ourselves and our families to more serious matters of my job search and how to keep myself going in these days of uncertainty. I have five siblings and while my relationships with some are closer than others, there’s not one that I could not pick up the phone today and connect with. I am so grateful to have them as a regular part of my life; it still surprises and saddens me when people tell me they haven’t seen or spoken to their siblings in years. I can’t imagine not having them in my life.
The circumstances under which I lost my job a few months ago were very trying and painful. Unfortunately they also required me to navigate and negotiate some potentially treacherous waters. Uncertain as to what I should do, I turned to one of my older sisters, who guided me and also drew in my other sisters. I also sent a full e-mail out to my other siblings letting them know what I was going through. When my brain was fogged by distress, my two older sisters stepped in and helped me take important steps to get the best out of what could have been a really challenging situation. My older brothers offered support and love and my younger sister helped me think through important details at the end of the process. I would have been lost without all the guidance and love I’ve received from all of them.
This summer various combinations of my siblings will be getting together. We try to gather at Christmas time, though sometimes we can’t all make it to the appointed place at the appointed time. What is true is that, whenever we get together we have a good time, we enjoy each others company. What’s also cool is that, for the most part, the next generation of the family also seem to enjoy getting together with their cousins and even hanging out with their old aunts and uncles. I’m grateful to be connected in a large wonderful group of siblings and their offspring. I do not and will not take them for granted. I’m looking forward to my next opportunity to enjoy their company.
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