Since I was very little, I have had someone I looked up to. Someone who I could count on no matter how daunting the situation became. Whether I was in tears, or couldn’t wait to share the most recent development in my life, I have someone I immediately want to discuss it with. He is a friend I feel so very blessed to have.
That someone is my younger brother, James. My parents taught us at a very early age that we shouldn’t fight, and if we did, we should apologize and put it behind us quickly. I can remember my mom pointing to my brother and saying to me “this is your best friend for life. He will always be important to you.” In the earliest stages of my life, I was okay with my brother, except when he knocked down my tower of blocks with his cars. At first I was mad, but then I realized he was only doing it to try to make me laugh. So I did, I laughed, and well, our friendship began.
The best quality my brother possesses is his compassionate nature to all those around him. It started when we were very young. When I was seven and he was five, our household fish, Dennis had passed away. My somewhat dramatic nature made me lock myself in my room and cry. A small piece of paper slid underneath my door and after enough time moping, I looked at it. It read, “Dear Sara, I am sorry that you feel sad and love you so much!” I immediately stopped crying and went to find my brother. That was the moment I realized how incredibly special he is!
He is wise beyond his years, giving me the best of advice when I feel like I can’t handle everything. Whether it is schoolwork related or advice about boys, he just knows what to say. The greatest advice he gave me is that being brave is essential and you’ll get the best experience living this way. My friends and I joke that he should write a book, but I am beginning to believe that! Going away to college has been tough. Although, it is easy to pick up my phone and text him, it just isn’t the same as being able to talk to one another in person. I can’t just walk over to his room and tell him what’s going on. My brother has become so much more than just my friend. He is a confidant, teacher, advisor, musical partner, but most importantly he is my role model. Yes, even though I am two years older, I strive to be like my brother everyday. I emulate his kind-heartedness and easy-going attitude into my life. When I feel I am on the verge of tears, he is the first person I think to call.
In the toughest of times, he is the strongest person I know. He has never asked for anything in return. He has never asked for recognition, which is part of the reason I feel that he deserves it. Anyone who has the privilege of knowing James, knows that he is a quiet, but kind person. The best way I’ve heard someone describe him is “a man of few words, but great character”. In my opinion, this is the greatest type of hero. One who silently lifts other people up and still manages the strength to take on his or her own world. That is my brother.
To James, thank you. You’re the kind of hero I feel lucky to have.
