Lessons

Somewhere between my brother abusing me throughout my childhood, my mom going on hospice, my dad barely speaking to me and becoming POA (power of attorney) for my dementia suffering mother, I am learning some life lessons.  Here are 3 -

Life Lesson #1: The Old Saying "Blood is Thicker than Water" Doesn't Always Ring True.
I feel like my family has run for the hills in the recent crisis's. Gosh forbid a parent hear directly from the abuser's mouth that they abused their sibling and such parent actually support & help the abused.  Yes, my brother admitted his abuse & my dad's response was somewhere near, "hey, want to brew beer next weekend?"   He has not said one word to me nor have I gotten any impression my brother has been told how wrong he is.

Life Lesson #2:  Love & Cherish Your Hubby & Kids
My husband has been the greatest support through (what feels like) my family turning on me & not showing any compassion for what I'm going through.  I thank God every day for the love & support & advice my hubby gives.  My kiddos are great too - they have learned the art of distracting me from the craziness (even if briefly) and always giving me love.

Life Lesson #3:  Brothers Can be Just A Kid You Grow Up Around - Not A Brother
Do I envy the girls that have the awesome brother that you can call & share with, ask advice without thinking he'll try and screw you and a guy that actually cares about their sister? Yes, I do.  That's why, since biology gave me a loser of a brother, I chose my own brother in my life.  He has great character, is fair, is open minded, a great businessman & all around wonderful person.

So the lessons are.....count your blessings, don't always think family will circle their wagons to protect you & don't think a loser will change his spots - oh, I meant leopard!