Had lunch with my brother Mark today. We used to get to do this all the time, but this past year has been "haywire" for me, so our time together is few and far between.
When we were little (I mean when I was 8 and he was 4), we were the "latch key kids" of the early 70's. I can't take credit for how well he turned out, but I'd like to think that our sweet, innate nature made us able to be compassionate adults. We are "feeling" kids, but we always have to be strong for others. It's just our destiny.
He listens to me though. Whether it's on the phone or especially in person... he's there for me. We have a very full plate with our lovely, beautiful... withering away 92 year old Grandmommy. I am able to be the main caregiver for her (as girls usually are), but I know it literally kills him how she's declined. I do envy his ability to be more removed from the situation.... but I wouldn't give up my involvement or connection with her in any way! In many ways, this amazing woman Esther Gilstrap was our mother (we lost Mom 3/10/04). If we needed a doctor, she took us. If we had acting class, brownies, school... whatever, she did it proudly and happily and gladly. Now, if she needs anything, we do it. She jokes all the time that she did it for us, so now it's our turn. This is her way of helping herself cope with her lack of independence. Believe me, there virtually is NONE.
He's a GOOD guy.
I am gushing. Don't expect this too terribly often!
When we were little (I mean when I was 8 and he was 4), we were the "latch key kids" of the early 70's. I can't take credit for how well he turned out, but I'd like to think that our sweet, innate nature made us able to be compassionate adults. We are "feeling" kids, but we always have to be strong for others. It's just our destiny.
He listens to me though. Whether it's on the phone or especially in person... he's there for me. We have a very full plate with our lovely, beautiful... withering away 92 year old Grandmommy. I am able to be the main caregiver for her (as girls usually are), but I know it literally kills him how she's declined. I do envy his ability to be more removed from the situation.... but I wouldn't give up my involvement or connection with her in any way! In many ways, this amazing woman Esther Gilstrap was our mother (we lost Mom 3/10/04). If we needed a doctor, she took us. If we had acting class, brownies, school... whatever, she did it proudly and happily and gladly. Now, if she needs anything, we do it. She jokes all the time that she did it for us, so now it's our turn. This is her way of helping herself cope with her lack of independence. Believe me, there virtually is NONE.
He's a GOOD guy.
I am gushing. Don't expect this too terribly often!
