Sisters

I learned all about friendships from my sisters. I've heard it said that we don't truly appreciate family members until we grow up. That may be true for some, but in regards to my sisters, it doesn't apply to me. I knew I had a treasure in each of them when I was a kid. Of course, we all have had moments of disagreements and arguing, but those are mere moments in comparison to a lifetime of loyalty, friendship, and love.

As a kid, I remember wanting desperately to be like my older sisters. I wanted to keep up with all the things they did. I remember feeling proud of them and being in constant amazement of all their accomplishments.

And I remember waiting for my younger sister to get big enough to play with me. I'd check on her daily to see if she got any bigger over night. I wanted a playmate just like my older sisters had in each other. I remember walking away from her crib thinking, "Almost... She's almost big enough." For years she and I  were inseparable... partners in fun and the innocent crimes of childhood.

And finally, I remember when I was almost ten and my youngest sister was born. I was absolutely mesmerized by everything her. I remember the first time I saw her... I was in awe. She was so little and I promised myself that I would love and protect her my whole life. She, just as each of my other sisters, had captured my heart.

I treasured each of those girls as we grew up together and I treasure each of these women now. The best gift my mom gave me, besides her love, is my sisters. The best gift I can give my sisters and my mother is to love them as well as they have loved me.

Whether we live near or far from one another, my sisters are always close to my heart. How could that not be... as each of them have stenciled the meaning of love and friendship on my heart and soul. I love them and I honor the place they have in my life.