My sister saved my life when I was age 5. We were walking our cat Tippy down the street from our house when a man drove up beside us, opened the back door of his car, and asked us if we wanted a ride. As I politely leaned inward to say “no thank you”, my sister grabbed my hand and I went flying, my legs seemingly flapping behind me. We did not stop until we were safely tucked in our home. I don’t know how my sister had me in one hand and a cat on a leash in the other, but she did it!
My sister, Roxanne (or Roxie) was always my second mom as we were growing up. I’d ask her to go downstairs to make sure our basement door was locked before we went to sleep, she stayed up with me in abundant excitement for Christmas, and she called and spoke with my friend’s older sister when my friend and I had a spat.
Roxie and I were very different: she liked horses, dogs, and boys. I liked princesses, ballet, and boys (our only common thread). She continued to act in the capacity of second mom, even through my teen years. I did not like this! I became a free spirit and I rebelled against her authoritative demeanor. We grew apart.
When my sister had brain cancer and radiation treatment at age 16, I was determined not to change our relationship and keep it the same. This was not my brightest idea. My sister had changed, she became somewhat vulnerable; and what she needed was a sister with compassion and care. But, I had no experience being the older caring sister. I failed miserably!
Today, I have a second chance to be there for my sister and to help her along with day-to-day tasks. My mom passed in 2021, so I’ve assumed the role as caretaker for my sister. I don’t think she likes that! <smile>
Oh yes she did save your life!!! Thank goodness for second chances and for the brave (like yourself) who take them. Thank you for sharing this beautiful story of love, loss and perspective.
Realizing our shortcomings and then making positive changes is not easy. I wish all could do this! It would make for a better world. Oh and I remember my introduction to long Island tea as well. It didn't end well😀🙂
Thank you, Rick! I do try...sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Ahhhhh....Long Island Iced Tea....it didn't end well. That made me laugh so hard!!!! That line would be a great chapter heading in a book for sure!
“Being a mother gave me a chance to truly become the best version of myself...”
This third part really hit home for me, Mary. I was as selfish could be in college, and it was only through my unexpected motherhood that the person I was meant to be was resurrected.
My sister saved my life when I was age 5. We were walking our cat Tippy down the street from our house when a man drove up beside us, opened the back door of his car, and asked us if we wanted a ride. As I politely leaned inward to say “no thank you”, my sister grabbed my hand and I went flying, my legs seemingly flapping behind me. We did not stop until we were safely tucked in our home. I don’t know how my sister had me in one hand and a cat on a leash in the other, but she did it!
My sister, Roxanne (or Roxie) was always my second mom as we were growing up. I’d ask her to go downstairs to make sure our basement door was locked before we went to sleep, she stayed up with me in abundant excitement for Christmas, and she called and spoke with my friend’s older sister when my friend and I had a spat.
Roxie and I were very different: she liked horses, dogs, and boys. I liked princesses, ballet, and boys (our only common thread). She continued to act in the capacity of second mom, even through my teen years. I did not like this! I became a free spirit and I rebelled against her authoritative demeanor. We grew apart.
When my sister had brain cancer and radiation treatment at age 16, I was determined not to change our relationship and keep it the same. This was not my brightest idea. My sister had changed, she became somewhat vulnerable; and what she needed was a sister with compassion and care. But, I had no experience being the older caring sister. I failed miserably!
Today, I have a second chance to be there for my sister and to help her along with day-to-day tasks. My mom passed in 2021, so I’ve assumed the role as caretaker for my sister. I don’t think she likes that! <smile>
Oh yes she did save your life!!! Thank goodness for second chances and for the brave (like yourself) who take them. Thank you for sharing this beautiful story of love, loss and perspective.
Relatable and engaging.
Thank you, Susan!
Realizing our shortcomings and then making positive changes is not easy. I wish all could do this! It would make for a better world. Oh and I remember my introduction to long Island tea as well. It didn't end well😀🙂
Thank you, Rick! I do try...sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Ahhhhh....Long Island Iced Tea....it didn't end well. That made me laugh so hard!!!! That line would be a great chapter heading in a book for sure!
The voiceover is so good.
“Being a mother gave me a chance to truly become the best version of myself...”
This third part really hit home for me, Mary. I was as selfish could be in college, and it was only through my unexpected motherhood that the person I was meant to be was resurrected.