Growing up, Miranda was never ashamed of me. Unlike stereotypes, she was an older sibling that was genuinely interested in having me around. She'd invite me to practically every activity she had, occasionally resulting in me beating entire girls' soccer teams in Just Dance tournaments. It meant a lot to have a sister that went out of her way to make sure that I was being taken care of and that I was included. It still means a lot.
It's hard to say which moments are the ones that draw siblings together. Maybe it’s the opening of a Monsters Inc. VHS on Christmas, coupled with the countless times watching it in the subsequent days. Or maybe it's the time spent making elaborate menus and cooking mediocre meals for your parents on their birthdays. Perhaps it's the times when one is sick or hurt and the other needs to bring them medicine, ice, or chicken noodle soup.
I can still remember going to the ice rink multiple times per week to watch Miranda skate. I remember the times that she agreed to play video games that she hated just because I asked her and because she loved me. I remember riding bikes with her and making her promise not to tell my mom when I got hit by a car. I remember all of the times that Miranda asked me to play soccer or kickball with her friends. I remember sleeping in her room on Christmas Eve, and waking up at 5AM to wake up our parents on Christmas morning.
In many ways, Miranda helped shape me into who I am today. Her competitiveness drove me to do my best. She always gave me advice if I wanted it, and she paved the way for me to do well in school. The majority of my soccer skills were developed by playing her one-on-one in the backyard. Her determination and desire to succeed in life left me with no other option than to follow in her footsteps.
I don't know if I'll ever know for sure just how much my sister influenced who I am, but I think it's safe to say that without her I wouldn't be the same. She's pushed me to be better. She's shown me what it means to live with humility and how to fight for things that are important. She's given me ample opportunity to learn how to serve others well and has given me a healthy respect for the amount of abuse that one's knees can take (RIP to her ACLS).
Yesterday, my sister got married. For years, we joked about who would get married first, but deep down I knew it'd always be her. She's brave, kind, and loving. She's a great sister, daughter, and friend. I know she'll be a great wife.
I had the pleasure of living with Miranda for much of the last year, and while there I got a glimpse into what her marriage will look like. Miranda and Brendan are great together. They compliment each other and push each other to grow in areas where they are weak. They forgive each other and want to live life together in a way that shares joy with those around them. They cook fancy meals and drink fancy wine. They play pickleball together and ride bikes together. They play video games with me and include me on evening strolls. Above all else, they love each other.
For a long time, I wondered what it'd be like if Miranda got married. Would it feel like I lost a friend, now that she was focused on someone else? I wondered what I'd do if I didn't like the guy, or if he wasn't good for her. Fortunately, these absurd questions are now gone; I've gained a brother, and am happy to know that she’s found her person. I'm thankful to be a part of their journey and am excited to see where they go next!
Love ya sis,
Matthew
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