MY LITTLE BROTHER

Dear Mijo,

I want you to know that I am so proud to be your sister. Sometimes it's hard for me to watch you become a man, because in my heart you are still my little baby brother. I still worry about you, probably more than you know and probably more than I should but that's because I love you. I know I'm not very tough, but I want to protect you from anything that might try to hurt you, I'm your big sister, that's what we do! When we were younger we fought a lot, you were such a little brat in cowboy boots and a tail calling me "fat" because you knew my chubby little legs could never catch you! As we have become adults, you are someone I love more than words could describe.

I want you to know that today on your birthday, it is not just "a day like any other". Today, 28 years ago, Mom had her first son.  I can only imagine how much love we all felt when she brought you home. I know you don't have kids yet, so maybe you can't imagine, but that love is instant and deeper than any ocean and forever! I know because I have a son too!

I want you to know, you were made to do wonderful things! I believe you can and will become the man God intended you to be and one day this will spill over and shape you into the wonderful father and husband I know you will be. Don't let anyone ever put you down or limit you, and know that anytime anyone ever tries to hurt you or underestimate you, your big sister is here to beat them up or at least tell you they are nothing but liars!

I love you Mijo! Happy Birthday!

love,

Rena

 

Today's Reflection:
Lord, thank you for my little brother.  Please protect him from things and people that may try to keep him away from your plans for him. Bless him in everything he does. Keep him safe and help him to build a strong foundation with you as he begins to grow a family of his own.

LOVING WHERE YOU'RE AT MONDAY

One thing I love about Sacramento is that we have a nice diverse culture.  I am proud that my children have a mixed heritage and proud that they are surrounded by a number of different cultures. Recently my baby brother got engaged to his long time girlfriend.  Last night we attended their Chinese Banquet.  We didn't understand all of the traditions, but regardless there are some things that can break down barriers, such as...

yummy food...

Dancing...

 and family!

Today's Reflection:

Loving where you're at does not always have to be about loving the physical place, but sometimes the season you are in.  Embracing those around you and the big life events you are experiencing. Last night was bittersweet for me because I feel like I am losing my baby brother, the experience was made a little easier because I was surrounded by loved ones who knew exactly how I felt.

Lord, protect my brother and his new family.  Let him be a blessing to them as he has been to me.  Keep him strong and give him the courage to be the man you have created him to be.