Sun Kissed Days

Sun Kissed Days

Monday, November 29, 2010

Bridges

Conversations around the kitchen table. Conversations at bedtime. Words floating, words dancing round and round. When Daniel was born, Josh was in high school. A fifteen year old that was absorbed in his AP classes,volunteer work,and social responsibilities. He was also a fifteen year old obsessed with his computer,his friends and taking long showers. At the time, I would ask him for his help with the baby. I did not ask for much, just to hold the baby for ten minutes while I would finish a chore. Josh would oblige and cradle Daniel in his arms. My heart would jump, my heart would smile. When I returned I witnessed how a change happened. Josh was captivated by his little brother. Their eyes locked together,and a faint smile would be draped on his face. Truth be told, I was building a bridge. A bridge that they could meet at. A bond, that goes deeper than the blood flowing through their veins. This holiday weekend Josh now, a third year medical student and Daniel a fourth grader were having conversations, and they were having pillow fights. I found myself still building the bridge between them. A age gap this large is difficult. They don't have the same interests. And so, on the phone with Josh every night I share stories about Daniel. Stories about the food drive at his school that helped nine families. Stories about wise things he said. Stories about books we are reading that I used to read with Josh. I also tell Daniel stories about Josh. I tell him about Josh's new rotations. I tell him about his volunteer work at the clinic. Most important I tell him that his brother is thinking of him. This is how I nurture the bond. I stitch a needlepoint of a life. This is how I create a legacy. A love that I carry like a locket in my heart. A love that will carry them through time.

4 comments:

  1. Oh, this is gorgeous. Stitching a needlepoint of life? Exactly. Priceless picture, too.

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  2. Thank you,Aidan.Love having you here! The picture was taken during a vacation to D.C. It's those rare moments when they shared a bed.

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  3. I love this post. I find it so touching when siblings with big age gaps find ways to relate to each other. My husband is 10 years older than his youngest brother and I loved that when we were in college he would call and talk to his 10-year-old brother every week. Now, eleven years later they're just as close. I know your boys will appreciate the bridge you're helping them build someday, if they don't already.

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  4. Thank you ,Gale! I am so thrilled you are here. As you know I love your blog! I wonder if the age difference seems smaller when both siblings are adults? Your husband must be special to have been sensitive to his younger brother and that's why they are close to this day.

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