A Sibling's Day Tribute:

To the Ones Who Hold My Heart

Today is Sibling's Day, and my heart swells with quiet emotion as I reflect on the incredible souls I am lucky enough to call my siblings. Though we may not speak often, there isn't a day that passes where I don't feel the immense love, pride, and gratitude I carry for each of them.

Each one of you holds a piece of my heart, wrapped in laughter, memory, and the invisible thread that ties us together, no matter the distance.

💗 Bonnie

My eldest sister, Bonnie, is the heartbeat of our family. Fourteen years older than me, she has always been our nurturing guide—our mother hen. Her heart is vast and generous, always open to those in need. She rushes to ease burdens before they're even spoken aloud.

Her compassion is unmatched. She gives without question, loves without limit, and moves through the world like a swirl of energy and movement—always doing, always caring, always there.

🌿 Terri

Terri, twelve years my senior, is a quiet force of nature. She holds wisdom like a sacred flame—calm, steady, and deeply rooted.

A mystical soul, she finds her peace in solitude and the natural world, always seeking to understand the mysteries of life and being. She listens deeply, feels deeply, and moves through the world with grace and insight. There’s something ancient and healing in her spirit, something that invites reverence.

🛠️ Rob

My big brother, Rob, is strength wrapped in gentleness. Just four years older than me, he has always been a protector and a presence of deep love.

He builds his life around what truly matters—family, home, and connection. To me, he is velvet and steel: soft in spirit, strong in soul. He gives of himself with quiet devotion, and his love is an anchor in the storm.

A Love That Runs Deep

Each of my siblings has lived through their own struggles, their own griefs and triumphs. And still, they shine—brighter, wiser, and more compassionate than ever. Sensitive souls, all of them. Givers. Healers. Light-bringers.

Sometimes I keep a quiet distance—not because I love them less, but because I love them so much. My heart feels full to bursting when I think of them. And with that love comes the shadow of fear—the fear of grief. The fear of losing something so precious, so irreplaceable.

I’ve known grief that has leveled me, and part of me stays quiet to protect my heart from that kind of pain again.

Today, I Choose to Celebrate

But today, I want to speak.
To celebrate.
To say aloud what I feel every day in the silent corners of my soul:

Bonnie, Terri, Rob—you are extraordinary human beings.
You are love in action.
You are joy, resilience, and goodness in this world.
I am endlessly proud of you.
I am endlessly grateful for you.
And I love you more than words will ever be able to fully express.

Thank you for being exactly who you are.
Happy Sibling's Day.

With all my heart,
Barbara

April 10, 2025