Growing up as the only girl in a family of three kids, I quickly learned that my brothers were not only there for me, but they ultimately taught me lessons that helped in picking the mate that I would have for the rest of my life. While I'm a girly-girl, I can certainly "hang" pretty well with the "boys". In fact, I get along much better with guys than I do with girls - and I'm sure that my childhood had a lot to play into that.
Lately, I've been thinking about the men in my life that mean the most to me, and I just wanted to post a quick note about how proud I am of each and every one of them.
First, my husband. While I've known him the least amount of time as any of the others I will mention here, he is an incredible guy, who, for some reason, never gives up on me - even when I give up on myself (which seems to be often lately). He is my rock. I look back at where I was 14 years ago and realize that he has taught me so much. He's encouraged me to be independent. I know how to change spark plugs, tires, belts and other miscellaneous car parts. I can build a computer basically from scratch. I can finish drywall, cut the grass, etc. I've acquired a taste for Chinese food, and other edibles I wouldn't even try before I met him. In the past few years, I've watched him grow spiritually, which has helped us grow closer together both emotionally and spiritually. I'm proud of who he is, all that he has, and for never compromising to those around him.
Next is my father. Obviously the adult male figure in my life as a child, he has taught me so much. As I get older, I find more and more in common with him than I ever thought possible. He is always there to listen or provide support. He admits his weaknesses and displays his strengths. With some not-so-good memories, I am grateful today to have my father in my life. He may not be physically close, and I may not see him often, but I always know he is a phone call away. I admire him, am proud of the man he is, and happy to call him my dad.
My older brother is next. With a 3-1/2 year age difference, I can say that we were never really that close as kids. He didn't always want his baby sister hanging out with him. But, when he left home and joined the Navy, I was so proud. While things got a little rough between the two of us many years ago, I can honestly say that I am so happy that some things can be forgiven (but never forgotten). I look at him today and admire the strength he has. I'm proud of the man he is, the father he is, and overall the person that he is. I hope to someday be able to have as great a family as he does - with the openness and sharing that they all have together. His son, my nephew, is growing to be the same kind of guy that he is - and that right there make me proud. Things are changing is his life right now, and I can't be more proud of him for not giving up on his dreams.
My baby brother, if I can say that, is last, but definitely not least. I call him my baby brother, but in fact, as my twin, he is more my second half. Growing up, we were close - we had to be. However, as with any brother - he didn't always want his sister hanging out. Yet, in high school, that changed. His friends were my friends, and vice versa. To this day, I appreciate the fact that I was welcomed by him (and his friends). Pursuing his own dreams and moving out of state, I see now how much he has grown in the past two years. He is happy; happier than he ever was living closer. He's grown spiritually, and guides me with what he has learned. He is continuously learning and teaching. Someday, he is going to make a wonderful father. I'm proud to be not only his twin, but his sister and friend. I'm proud of the man that he has become and proud that he has never ever given up on his dreams.
For all of you, I'm blessed to know each one of you. Together, you have formed me into a different, independent person than I ever thought was possible. I love you all very much and am proud of each of your accomplishments, families, dreams and pursuits.
0 comments:
Post a Comment