Siblings

 To the outside world we all grow old.  But not to brothers and sisters.  We know each other as we always were.  We know each others hearts.  We share private family jokes.  We remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys.  We live outside the touch of time.  ~Clara Ortega

I think that one of the greatest bonds you can share is that with your siblings. I am fortunate enough to have a sister and a brother. My relationship with each always has been and always will be different. Let's start with my sister.

Growing up, Ange and I loved each other more than anything, but when we didn't get along...boy...we truly didn't get along. The latter moments lasted just that...moments. We knew everything about each other...stuff mom and dad would never believe. As we got older we realized how lucky we were to have each other. Having a sister means always having someone there to tell your deepest, darkest secrets to. It means that no matter what happens, there's always going to be someone right there next to you, holding your hand. If there's ever a time that you feel the whole world's against you and you have no one left, your sister will always be there. At least that's what having a sister means to me. I know that no matter how near or far, my sis will always have my back.

"A sister is a gift to the heart, a friend to the spirit, a golden thread to the meaning of life."  ~Isadora James

Brothers are a little different...especially when they're younger. I think as females, our maternal instincts just naturally kick in and we feel the need to protect them. From the moment my brother came home those instincts kicked in for me. Peter would wake me up every weekend before even thinking of waking up my parents. I never got mad. Instead, I'd get up, make him breakfast, and watch cartoons with him until everyone else was awake. Sometimes I miss those weekend mornings with my little brother. Although he may never admit it, I know that he misses them too.

 "Brother and sister, together as friends, ready to face whatever life sends. Joy and laughter or tears and strife, holding hands tightly as we dance through life."