My brother and I were at each others throats as kids.
I blame him mostly because I was AND am an angel.
OK, perhaps I can't blame him 100%….I might have been a brat once or thrice…and we might have lived in a broken home….and he certainly was struggling with his sexuality and with a father who wasn't so compassionate.
I found this note from Mark while cleaning out my closet a few weeks ago.
~October 1989~
The last line made it soooooo Mark. {Jeff is The Coach}
Most of my long time readers know that Mark passed away from the complications of AIDS in 1990 at the young age of 25.
Finding this letter made my heart sing…knowing that he and I were at peace with our childhood terrorism towards each other; what a gift!
Most of my long time readers know that Mark passed away from the complications of AIDS in 1990 at the young age of 25.
Finding this letter made my heart sing…knowing that he and I were at peace with our childhood terrorism towards each other; what a gift!
{Dang….he gave a mean wedgie}
Now, go hug someone right this minute.
Anything special you covet from a loved one who's left this world?
Awwwww, what a sweet letter! So glad you have it!
ReplyDeleteI was waiting for this when you told me you were going to post it. I did not know that your brother had passed away! I'm so sorry for your loss. I know that must be tough, but what joy to have those words written in his hand. My favorites are letters from my grandmother especially the ones where she's just writing about nothing, rambling on about everyday things in her life.
ReplyDeleteLove this. Love the letter. And I know had I known him I would have loved him too... xox Thanks for sharing this very special letter with all of us. Hugs!
ReplyDeleteSuz, that was a very special find! I can relate to you when it comes to "sibling rivalry" - and that's putting it nicely. My sister and I did not get along at all growing up. We fought all the time and once I left the house barely spoke. Everything changed once we had Hannah and I am so glad it did! We get along great now and I wish I could change how things were back then. I am so sorry you lost your brother, but I am glad you and him had put all the childhood drama behind you.
ReplyDeleteOh, Suz. This made me cry this morning at work. I am so glad God gave you this gift. Brothers are interesting creatures, that is for sure. Did your Grandma have a hard time dealing with his passing? I can't imagine how hard that must be on a parent. I wish your girls could have known him.
ReplyDeleteI wish I would have kept the letters my Grandma sent me when I was in college. I miss her writing. I miss her words.
Hey, Grandma! Suz is sleeping with Jeff!
ReplyDeleteThanks. :) The cats out of the bag now!!!!
DeleteXOXO
that letter is such a treausre... i am so glad you have something this beautiful!!! xoxo
ReplyDeleteabsolutely precious. bless you - and his spirit that still lives.
ReplyDeleteI can understand why you kept and treasure this letter. And I agree that we should take every possible opportunity to tell someone that we love them.
ReplyDeletePriceless! What a great keepsake :)
ReplyDeleteYes, HUG those you love!!!! After our experience today of that near-head-on-collision, I do feel lucky to be alive and it certainly made me realize that we cannot count on one more minute with those we love.... Life can change in a heartbeat. I can only imagine how much you miss Mark.... HUGS to you.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Betsy
It sounds like Mark had a difficult time in his short life. Dysfunctional homes seem to take a toll on boys sometimes more than the girls. We have seen that with our brothers. However, Mark knew that whatever was going on, he could count on you for unconditional love. It's great you have the letter for comforting memories.
ReplyDeleteOh, I know what it's like to lose a brother, I lost mine too. The last thing he did, he was 2 years old, was toddle towards me and want me to pick him up and hold him, which I did. That's the last time I saw him alive. He died of spinal meningitis. I will never forget that as long as I live, and when it's my time to go, I will be so happy to see him again! Bless you dear girl.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful thing for your brother to put in writing. Thank you for showing us this precious letter - I love that last line, too! He was obviously a riot, like you - and this posting makes me wish I could have known him. I am sorry for your loss, Suz, but so glad you had Mark in your life. You know that I believe he is still with you - loving you and your family. xoxo
ReplyDeleteAw, Suz, what an AWESOME treasure that letter is. I'm so glad you still have it. Thanks for sharing it with us.
ReplyDeletexoxox
What a precious treasure...I know you miss him. I love the photo of you two.
ReplyDeleteoh how SAD but wonderful too...wow....gosh...
ReplyDeleteWow! It's incredible that you found this. What a gift. xoxo
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful letter. I can tell you raised your daughters to have a strong bond as well!
ReplyDeleteOh how precious, how priceless! I'm so sorry you lost him so young! My heart hurts for you. I know you treasure that written word. Thank you so much for sharing this! We never know what others are struggling with. I'm glad I found you, thanks to Mildred!
ReplyDeleteBonnie
This was so special. Thanks for sharing--love the artwork from your other post as well.
ReplyDelete