What? It’s Siblings Day? I just happen to have a couple.
This photo was taken in Germany. I don’t know if I was born yet. My parents told me that when he found out they were expecting another baby, David worried that they wouldn’t understand me. He thought I’d arrive speaking German. Debby looks as if she might have been considering that, too, and is teaching herself sign language.
I don’t think I’ve ever mentioned that whenever we traveled by car, I was mentally filing away directions from our house to our destination. I’d memorize street signs, highway numbers, and town names. Frankly, that was kind of exhausting for a little kid. But somehow I was given the idea that when we traveled, if I got out at a gas station to use the restroom, or if I lingered too long in a restroom or inside a country store, I’d be left behind. I don’t know who might have given me that idea, DAVID AND DEBBY, but for once, I thought it was pointless to be The Snitch. After all, it was my parents who were in charge, so clearly they were the ones who’d leave me behind. As I got older, I even secretly scribbled down directions on scrap pieces of paper and receipts.
No, really, I don’t hold grudges, so happy Siblings Day, David and Debby!
And remember, if you’re a step, an only, a foster, or an adoptee, I believe family isn’t always about birth. It’s about love. Hold whoever you think of as a sister or brother close in your heart today. And if they’re younger, don’t let them learn about Google Maps, MapQuest, or GPS. It takes all the fun out of sibling terrorism.