I had the pleasure of spending this past weekend with my
entire family: Mom, Dad, three brothers, one sister, two sisters-in-law, one
brother-in-law, one nephew and one brother’s girlfriend. All in the same cabin
in the mountains of Pennsylvania .
And it was relaxing and beautiful and pleasant.
Three mustached, but beautiful ladies. My sister-in-law, me, and my brother's lovely girlfriend.
My family has many ways in which they show how much they love
and care about me. One of the very important ways that they demonstrate their
love is by respecting that I keep Shabbat and kosher. They do their best to
understand not only the Halacha (laws) but also ask questions in order to
better understand. They are careful to leave on bathroom lights and watch
television in another room, as well as planning activities that will not force
me to break Shabbat. For example, we went hiking (I was so glad my ankle held
up!), played board games, and retold stories for the benefit of my baby brother’s
girlfriend. Keep in mind, my baby brother is about to begin his junior year at Emory,
so he is a baby only in the pecking order of the family.
The visit reminded me of how much I miss seeing everyone in
person. We talk on the phone often, but it does not replace a real-life hug.
And my family are definitely huggers.
Being from a big family is a blessing. There was always
someone with which to argue, play, and discuss problems. We tormented each
other but protected each other from outside tormenters. I always knew that my
teachers would be pleased to see another Green, because of the impression that
my older brother and sister set before me. Now, as adults, we have strengthened
our relationships, which grow and change as we grow and change. We are friends
as much as we are siblings, and that is not something that everyone can say. I
am very appreciative to be so close with my brothers and sister. I guess my
parents must have done something right.
My adorable nephew and I mug for the camera.
No comments:
Post a Comment