Editor’s Note: We love our siblings.At least when we grow up. But were the feelings the same when we saw them first? Or was there a tinge of envy? Or fear that our parents would love the little one more? Our member priya4raj writes a letter to her brother asking questions. And wondering. Share your experiences with us here.
Dear brother,
Yesterday, I saw my little girl returning from school, clasping her brother’s arm tightly and I forcefully made myself to dwell in the memoirs of our beautiful relationship. I don’t want to scrap my memory to find out when it turned beautiful. I don’t want to. But I know, it is, now. I have an unasked question, brother. What was the thought that hit your mind when you saw me first, wrapped in a towel, when nanny jubilated to the entire hall the arrival of the first girl baby of our family, and when you saw me around the corner of your eyes. Was it envy? pride? joy? I am sure you would have envied me when mamma kissed me, papa stroked my hair, and aunts exhilarated my features.. I remember the days you would escort me to school or the park side where we would play in the evenings. I hope those were the days when your envy turned into pride, that you are a big brother.. Adolescence gave us maturity and we became busy enjoying the fantasies that it brings along, both of us separately! And remember, how we both would join dad to make fun of mom’s cooking experiments?
Being the youngest in the family I had troubles little, and there was always somebody behind me jotting down my issues, even if I had any. It was you who turned the key of my freedom on. You stood beside me when I wanted to go out of home for a profession of my own. And without you, I would have been wingless now.. Days flew, I doubt whether I shared stories of my experiences out in the world with you. Didn’t I? I remember how you looked when I got married, I too was telling hubby that you are worried that I wouldn’t be there to fight with.. But, now, I re-think.. were you feeling bad that your sister is not your sister alone then? Tears roll down when I think so.. Anyways, with the memories of togetherness and with the lessons from dad and mom, I promise we will remain friends forever.. Dear, I realize the strength and the real sense of brotherhood especially after getting married and when sharing the life and love with another guy, and after living with kids and after the distance that has been imposed on us like every other brother and sister. And I have to tell you something too, for all the wonderful memories- sharing, caring, fussing, pushing, fights and ‘establishing rights’, that you have created for me,
I thank you, I love you and miss you too!!
– Ever loving sis.
PS: Just like a child bearing woman’s cravings, I have a craving of a lifetime, and that is to have an elder brother. Brotherly feeling has been imparted my many brothers, but something in me always wishes to a have a branded elder one!! And this would be my letter to him, if he had been there!!
