There is no bond stronger than that of brotherhood. It is truly a blessing to have someone to grow up with by your side. No one knows you better than a brother. How to make you smile and laugh, how to make you mad and push your buttons. There is always a competition and rivalry that only brothers know. Sports, school, video games, basically everything is a competition. The most trivial of events develop into the utmost of importance; racing to the car in the attempt to get the front seat, one on one games of basketball erupting into fights, shutting off the Xbox just moments before losing in order to save face and a shred of dignity. There is no worse fate than losing, and then having to suffer the mockery from your brother.

When it comes down to it though, your brother always has your back. No one else is allowed to make fun of or harass your brother. That job belongs to you, and you alone. There is nothing I wouldn't do for my brother, and I know he would do the same for me.

This is what is so powerful about brotherhood. You don't have to face anything alone. You have a best friend, a confidant, and an ally to help you every step of the way. You always have someone to turn to when you need it. From the smallest of problems to the biggest of issues, you have someone by your side.

There is always a pride when it comes to your brother. It is this shared feeling of accomplishment when you or your brother succeeds. People tend to lump you together anyway, so it can automatically feel like a group effort, a family pride. All the competing leads to this. Seeing your brother's name in the paper, on the Dean's list, or just hearing other people talk fondly of him brings a smile to my face. That feeling of "Yeah, that's my brother!" often jumps out. Your brother is truly an extension of yourself.

There are fights, tears, teasing and competition, but at the end of the day having a brother is one of the greatest things in the world. As you get older you start to realize this. You grow out of the stupid arguments and pointless bickering (most of the time), and get closer. You become thankful to have someone in your life that will love and support you unconditionally. You don't get a choice on who you get as a brother, but that is irrelevant because you know you wouldn't choose anyone else anyway.

Brotherhood is a bond that can't be broken. There are many people in your life who come and go, but a brother is not one of them. Brotherhood is for life, and nothing will ever change that. No matter how far away, no matter what anyone says or does, you will always have a best friend in your bro. I am thankful every day to have a brother as wonderful as mine.

I love you Devon.