Marilyn and Michael

“Brothers and sisters are as close as hands and feet.”  
~Vietnamese Proverb

I’m not even sure where to begin on this one. I’ve been wanting to write something about Marilyn and Michael for a long time, but still struggle with knowing where to begin.

Marilyn and Michael are my amazing sister and brother. I’m sure most of you who know me know them as well. I have been blessed beyond measure when it comes to these two.

Marilyn is the spark in our family. She’s the life, laughter, and free spirit that lifts us up. Pretty much every funny story I can remember from my childhood growing up involves Marilyn. And there’s lots of stories and memories, that’s for sure! Marilyn and I shared a room until I went off to college. There were lots of late night talks, and of course plenty of occasions where we got so annoyed with each other, we divided the room in half with tape, threatening any number of consequences if the line was crossed. But we survived, and now share a friendship that runs deep down into the core of who we are. No matter how much time passes, I know Marilyn is there for me, and I for her. We pick up right where we left off every time.

Michael is the anchor of our family. He is the steady constant, always there to lend a listening ear and a word of encouragement. Always willing to go deep in conversation and think outside the box. Michael always makes time for you; always has time to spend with you. We have enjoyed awesome conversations together, and continue to muddle through life’s perplexing questions. We especially love talking about God and all the mysteries we don’t understand just yet. He is an observer of people and a deep thinker. I feel my mind gets stretched a little more each time I’m with him.

Marilyn, I have learned so much from you and admire you in so many ways. Your spirit of adventure and courage to follow your heart’s desires to see the world remind me to never grow complacent with my life. You are one of the hardest workers I know, yet you also know how to keep things in perspective. You are intelligent and sharp while being humble and tender-hearted. You are successful and driven, yet take one day at a time. And you remember the ones you love. Thank you for who you are and who you help me to be. I need you in my life, and I’m truly blessed to have you. I love you so much.

Michael, I am so proud of the person you are and continue to become. You are such a people person – never forget that you have a unique ability to build relationships. Somehow, you have a special gift for opening people’s hearts to you. You make people feel safe, loved, and accepted, and they can see you genuinely care for them. You have so much ahead of you, and I know you will succeed at whatever avenue you follow in life. I love you so much.

“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 other's hearts... We live outside the touch of time. “ ~Clara Ortega

Never forget how much I love you both... nothing can ever change my love for you.

Andrea