A family is our first teachers of love, friendship and forgiveness. There are days you will go to war for your family. Then, there are days you must make a stand. I grew up with two younger brothers. We had an older brother and sister who didn't live with us. I also have a biological father who has two kids (get me drunk sometime and I will attempt to explain my family tree). Needless to say, I am familiar with both sides of the battle. 

In those moments of defense, our siblings are meant to test us. As an older brother, I was/am often pushed to my limits. Here, I learned patience and how to work through complex problems of ego. I also learned to be a unit and lead. More than anything in this world, I am who I am, because of Clayton and Lucas. 

They also revealed my creativity. We would spend countless hours "making movies" (pretend battles, wars, stories), playing Turtles or cars. We would invent good versus evil. The only limitation was often our own imaginations. As a 30 year old man, I am amazed at my ability to still see the world in the same way. 

As we age, our unconditional love grows. Your siblings will disappoint you. You will return the favor. Still the love remains the same. They will also surprise you. They will go off to war. They will start a family. They will overcome addiction. They will accept you without condition. They will love deeply. 

Modern manhood is about applying the lessons from your childhood and those gained from your siblings to a life well lived. It is about growth, It is about accepting your siblings for who they are. It is about who they can become. More than anything, it is about being present. 

Thanks for entering my world, 

-Nathan