January 13, 2010

Michael

My plan today was to post an entry from an old journal. But it was funny. And I'm not in a funny mood. My little brother Michael (who although younger, is not little anymore) is hurting. He is sad and I can't fix it. And I want to. Badly. I want to make everything right and I can't. And it makes me crazy.Michael is the baby of the family. There is a large age gap between us, but we have always been close. He often wanted to tag along, and I allowed it (although, as this picture shows, there were many times I shouldn't have. Perhaps flirting with the roller coaster attendant to get my way-too-short brother on an illegal ride was not the wisest thing I have ever done. But it sure made for a classic picture). Here he is with my beautiful mother. And while he is not my child, I get how she must be feeling today.

We don't want him to hurt. But sometimes we have to back away and let those we love most figure things out on their own. And we have to have faith that they are strong enough. And that we are strong enough to allow it.

So this day I hope for peace for him. And courage. And comfort. And I hope that with time, the laughter will return.

11 comments:

Nikki said...

I obviously don't know the specifics of your brother's situation, but I can understand your pain. My little (not so little anymore) brother, Michael is hurting as well and not even speaking with his family right now. Today has been one of the hard days. I will include your family in my prayers for my brother.

Shaun & ShawnnaLea said...

Beautiful post. I hope all works out for him.

Mimi said...

Hugs and prayers. Love to you.

Todd and Amyjoy said...

I am feeling for you Amber. Hang in there. I will say a prayer for your sweet brother.

Rachel said...

One of the hardest things about being a 'fixer' (not that I know anything about needing to fix and heal things) is knowing when to step back. Your empathy for others is one of my favorite characteristics. Try to remember that the painful circumstances are the ones that build character. I am wishing him peace and clarity Amber, and I am wishing you these same things. Your heart is good. I wish there were more people like you in the world.

Nancy said...

Prayers work wonders.... We'll be thinking of him. Hard times are always hard to witness for our loved ones. My little sis is having a challenge right now too and i just feel for her.
THANK YOU, THANK YOU for you kind words on my blog. i read your comment last night after I had a cruddy day... definitely didn't win "Mother of the YEar" yesterday ..and your words encouraged me.Thank you.... :) You added another bright spot to my rainbow...

Michelle Butler said...

I am sorry that someone you love is in pain. I hope Michael find comfort and peace yet again in his life. I know it is hard... I am still struggling greatly myself with this. Thank you for sharing your experience in Young Woman's. That was sweet of you.

Heather @ Life Made Lovely said...

I think watching the ones we love hurt is one of the worst feelings we feel. Pray, pray, pray for him and for peace and comfort to cover him. I will be.

Michelle said...

He sure has grown in to quite the hansom man. I remember him as a little guy too.

There is nothing worse then watching a sibling in pain. I ache for you and I hope that whatever his situation is that he will find peace and comfort.

Love ya sis'

Andrea said...

I'm sorry you're sad. I'm sorry your little brother is sad, too.

Do you think it would make you feel better if you searched for and found a screaming deal on airline tickets somewhere warm? Well, then, what are you waiting for (I've already searched with no luck, so it's up to you now)?

I'll be awaiting your e-mail containing the details.

Again, sorry you're sad.

feather said...

i don't know how i missed this post. i am sorry for your brother's pain. and completely understand the "rescuer mode" you are wanting to fall into. i do it all the time. 'tis the test of a true heart; knowing that you cannot rescue him, that you cannot fix this for him, and that you *shouldn't* fix it for him. he will find his way. it will be a long road for him, but he has a supportive family. time will heal. he will be okay.

also, i see my girls nancy and heather have stopped by. they are awesome chicks. and great in the prayer department. you can bet they are chatting at the sky for you. as am i.