Brotherhood

We were friends, rivals, enemies growing up - and like siblings you might find anywhere on the planet, we've had our fights and disagreements. Being just two years apart, we've shared the same school twice and had to look out for each other when we were in similar sessions (there used to be morning and afternoon classes). It was fun having a brother in school, and I knew many other boys who were in the same situation. Funny that most of them had younger brothers too.

That makes me think about what it would be like to be on the other end of the equation. Instead of being the big brother, but knowing instead there is someone older looking out for you. It's probably a nice feeling, but only a middle child (e.g. Shannon) can experience both worlds and reflect on which one is better.

But I'm getting further away from my intended topic.

Why do siblings drift apart? Brothers and sisters alike? A familiarity too irritating? Differing life choices made on purpose? Little annoyance that build up over the years? Extended sibling rivalry?

Like with any relationship, you have to work on it - brother, sister, spouse, friend. There is no magic bullet. With brothers and sisters, you can't divorce them or unfriend them - they were given by God and your parents and there's no way to give them back, even if you tried. So there are only two options, the easier one of course is to let whatever happens naturally when you don't bother (i.e. wither away) which is what I think happens to many sibling relationships.

He ain't Hae Bee, he's my brother. Eating prata before COVID-19 takes it away.

Between Fred and me, we have a good relationship nowadays - we agree on most things, like to hang out together and sport a similar fondness for having supper at 24-hour prata shops that don't care about social distancing rules.

I respect his views and understand where he comes from with regards to his family, business and priorities. Although we don't see eye-to-eye on a few things, I don't focus on them, but instead, celebrate the similarities we still have. Time has brought wrinkles to our faces and white hair to our heads, but inside, we're the same two rascals ridings our bikes around the neighbourhood, or trying to scam other kids out of the cards and ice-cream sticks in the school playground!

Thanks for being a great brother Fred! I'll always be looking out for you! More supper sessions once this nonsense virus is over!