I realized earlier today that next year is one of those "big" birthdays, which just really surprised me, because J is perpetually 35 in my mind. 40 at tops, but nothing more than that. Of course, that doesn't exactly fit the math since I know my age, and J is older than me...but in my mind, I am also perpetually 35...38 at tops. Now that is how my mind feels...my body may feel differently, but...that is another story!
But today - this birthday - is a "regular" one for my YOUNG sister, so it is my chance to honor and appreciate her for 5 things that she has taught me. Trust me, I've known this wonderful lady my whole life so she has taught me WAY more than 5 things, but these are the 5 that came to my mind today.
5 - Breastfeeding. Yep, that's right, breastfeeding. J had her oldest, A, when I was a teenager, and J thoroughly enjoyed nursing A. I had never given breastfeeding any thought one way or the other at that time, but J made it so real and wonderful and doable, that she sold me. When I had my babies, it never really occurred to me to feed them in any other way. I'm not shaming any mama who fed their babies by other means, but I will always treasure that time of feeding each of my children as only I could. And that is due, in large part, to J's teaching when I was but a teenager.
4 - Read. Lots. Out loud and often.
2 - Compassion and empathy. J gets it. She has experienced deep hurt and loss in her life. J has not let it close her off, but she stays open and gives compassion easily and genuinely. J is approachable, and people know it People of all ages.
1 - Family history. J and I are the only ones left from our birth family. She knows some; I know some; we still have gaps. But nobody else can teach me that stuff about our parents and siblings - places we lived, jobs, schools, churches...memories.
I love you, J! You are one of the youngest people I know...eternally young at heart. You inspire me as well as teach me.
Happy! Happy! Birthday J!!
No comments:
Post a Comment