Who Is He?
Who is He?
He was small and sort of roly-poly. He had a chubby face full of innocence. In the mind’s eye of a child, the innocence could easily be mistaken for vulnerability. And it was. That vulnerability was taken advantage of – often. He was blamed (and punished) for things he didn’t do. He was bribed to cover up for someone else’s wrongdoings. He took it and never complained. It was easy – he was so easily manipulated! He was ridiculed in front of his friends. He was in the way. So, instead of pushing him out, he was pushed about!
Somewhere between denying mom’s outstretched hand and having to reach out for it, he grew up. He grew tall and lean, but muscular. His voice lowered about three octaves. And the look of innocence wasn’t innocence at all. Oh, it was still there, but somehow, it was no longer vulnerability. It was compassion and love. He was no longer weak. He was strong, yet gentle. He was someone whom I’d never allowed myself to know until I reached a valley in my new venture into adulthood.
He was there to pick me up. (Why?) He was there to give me strength – but just enough to nurture my own strength. His belief in me sprouted my own belief in me. His friendship forced me to see the beauty in other people and, more vitally, in myself. His love overcame my negativity. His whole, beautiful being sparked my growth. And I grow and grow and grow. I no longer struggle through my self-created darkness. I shine!
Who is this beautiful man? He’s my brother.
Shauna L Bowling
This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.
© 2011 Shauna L Bowling
Comments
AUTHORLinda, unfortunately my brother hasn't spoken to me in 6 months. We had a misunderstanding that he refuses to discuss. However, I'll never stop trying to repair our relationship.
Awww, having a close relationship with siblings is a gift to treasure.
- AUTHOR
Yes, I'm truly blessed, brandasaur!
You have a very sweet brother BRAVEWARRIOR, only few have this kind of brother in their lives. Very helpful, loving and very kind.
- AUTHOR
My apologies; I miscalculated the date. The latter picture was taken 3 Thanksgivings ago, which would put the year at 2009. Boy, take this accountant off the clock and she can't do the math!
- AUTHOR
I guess the cat's out of the bag! I'm working on my future as we speak. My intent is to put out some new material in addition to reflections, moving forward!
Very well done, BW, your missives of your past are so interesting, I'm looking forward to those concerning your future. BTW, your picture is dated exactly three years ago today.
- AUTHOR
Thank you both so much! In fact, check out danasviews.com to get a glimpse of what my brother's about. He's awesome!
In this story, you made me want to meet your brother and have long chats with him. You are an amazing writer!
How inspiring and beautiful. Both you and your brother are lucky to have found yourselves and each other.
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