[A note to celebrate my brothers on their birthday.]
Happy birthday, Luis and Sammy. ♥️ I struggled a lot with loneliness as a kid. I spent hours by myself reading or up in some tree. I would pray a lot for a sibling, and so, when I was told you were on the way, while other kids pout, or reject their siblings for a while— I laughed and cried from happiness and rolled on the ground until I cried tears of joy. I remember it now like it was yesterday. I remember thinking that clearly Jesus and I were tight because he favored me so much that He gave me double for my years and years of little prayers I thought went unheard. But you, and that moment, are a reminder that God works like that. We ask for something, and He surprises us with a gift beyond what we imagine. The key in life is that when those gifts arrive, you cherish them to show your steadfast gratitude.
I haven’t been a perfect sister. (Far from it. Been to therapy, lol). But one thing I can tell you despite the flaws in expression— I have loved you from day one. I am grateful that we share this bond forever. That in old age, we will have each other, and I am sure we will be laughing. That is what we do. There are more memories to make, more laughs to have, more high school musical songs to sing.
Watching you grow up has been a supreme privilege. I know for certain it has shaped me as a person. There is no me without you. Anytime I had you with me, I took it as a supreme responsibility because of the gift you were and are.
Thank you for growing into kind, hard working, loving and funny individuals. Each of you unique and resilient in your own way.
Thank you for all the joy. Truly. I can’t imagine life without you, and I am glad I don’t have to. ❤️
GABRIELA YARELIZ 