I’m not sure if anyone is as lucky as I am. We four children, kids from the 80’s, are the most gifted foursome I know. Sure I’m biased. But it’s absolutely true. No doubt in my head. And more than gifted.
Years and years ago, I’m sure exactly when even, my sister and I walked through the Christian bookstore and were talking about doing a study group with each other because we wanted to encourage each other to maximize our potential. I don’t think we ever started it, but the end of that trip were four books, and I know that each of us got one. I know I didn’t actually read mine, although I do still have it somewhere in my multiple stacks of books lining my house.
Siblings, in my opinion, are one of the best gifts that you can have. They are an endless source of strength. And as there are four of us, that’s four times the strength.
The challenge now is that we live in different parts of the country and finding all four of us together is a once-a-year event. Because I think that you can never say enough and there never seems to be enough time, opportunity, words even, I thought I’d write a few words about my own.
Zac: This stalwart figure is a person of honesty, frankness and absolute dedication. His word is better than gold; he looks for ways to make things right and he is fiercely loyal. Beyond character he has the intelligence of many scientists and continues to develop and move toward his career goals by application and hard work. And to that kindness. His brand is a mirthful one, laughter and sincerity, courage and steadfastness, he is a leader and a fortress. After almost 30 years of doing life in the same family with him, I continue learning from him that family is better than fortune and not to be taken for granted.
Jacob: This burgeoning fellow is a level-headed though hearty enjoyer of life. Candid as he is, he is clear on his beliefs and stance in life and has moved straight an arrow to pursue his goals and dreams 2000 miles away from our hometown. Faithful on all fronts, gifted musically, fellow appreciator of the arts and travel, conversation with him will never lack interest. A rare breed of selflessness, he shows genuine concern and compassion for everyone. Everywhere. In 27 years of living life in various parts of the state, country and even world, I haven’t stopped learning that thoughtfulness trumps talent and anyone can practice compassion and care.
Rachel: The dazzling one bursts with a hundred sparks and swirls of personality. Her spirit and giftedness, confidence and rigor, and true passion for clarity and excellent communication are invaluable. She can move in a hundred ways and in a hundred directions at the same time, yet the binding threads and pursuits of all things family, all things festive convert time in her presence to time of escapade-height and delight. Yet in after being a part of the show with her for 24 years, I have been only at every time awed above anything at the wisdom and insight that she shares. I am still learning from her that the fun and thrill of exploring and using one’s gifts are expressions of love for God and as worthy as any other kind of worship.
No perfect number of words or capture of character can really measure out or show light for light who these siblings are and their infinite impact on me, each other and our family.
And the siblings they each have and are bringing into the family by virtue of marriage and my own marriage are equally inspiring. To Ashlie, Amanda, and Austin and also to Tom and Mary, I am looking forward to the future, full of years of learning about them and from them.
Because what I’ve learned and keep learning is that siblings are a source of endless strength. And that strength is what I want for my own children as they grow up.
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