When it came time to do our sibling speech at the reception, my brain was fried, and that is such an understatement. I don't often get tongue-tied in public, but I did there. I wasn't nervous, but I just had a flood of thoughts and emotions and I felt pretty unsure of what to say next. I'm sure I had a meaningful moment up there all the same, but there were just so many things that I wanted to say and I didn't. I felt that it was just tremendously unsatisfactory.
So, though this is most certainly for him (and I have told him so much so), I wish to announce it publicly, so if you would rather close the window and come back tomorrow, no worries. Otherwise, amuse me if you will:
Once upon a time, there was a happy-go-lucky scrawny, little toddler who I called my brother (although he was often confused to be my little sister because of these overly-grown yet beautiful, rich curls). Mikey, you were always up to trouble, but in a cute, fun sort of way. When I see my Cj go from being wickedly destructive tohandsomely and utterly adorable, I can’t help but think this is how you must have been.
I thought that one day you might grow up to be a scientist or even a magician (or rather, you thought you would be one).You definitely wanted to be like me, and you even joined choir and would jump into any musical-type opportunity that you could; whatever instrument piqued your curiosity: between the drums, and the clarinet and even the baritone (who plays the baritone?!) and I’m sure there are one or two I’m missing in there.
But you were a smarty-pants for sure. I could never win anything that was too intelligent a game with you. Whether it was chess or some math-saturated-puzzle, you always held the upper hand. I do appreciate the opportunity to be exposed to sports and having a tom-boy-like childhood since it proves to help with having two boys now. I also enjoyed not being so girly and have always had an adventuresome streak and so, I have you to thank for that.
You were a trusting little brother and I have heard the story of my leaving you in the cold, winter snow saying I would return within a minute to only have you come in an hour later seeing me covered in a blanket with hot chocolate in my hand, time and time again. I say you exaggerate a bit. I would never desert you like that. Although I think that particular instance really did happen (so sorry!).
You argue too much. I always said I would never marry anyone like you because I would never win. Then I married a lawyer. Perhaps you were just preparing me. Again, thank you.
You used to be scared of the dark. You used to sit and talk with me about life, love and other mysteries. You used to love to sleep...I mean, you could sleep anywhere, standing up, sitting down... (oh wait, you still do).
Obviously, there is no one else in this world who is quite like you. There are maybe only a few who come remotely close. When I look at you, I see a being created to shine in a more brilliant way, more than anyone you know. You stand out. People see it and they are drawn to you.
I have often said before, and will continue to tell you, God created you to be a unique treasure for the people in your life. I’m convinced you were specifically pieced together and placed here for this generation.
You possess these characteristics, these qualities, these pieces of knowledge and creativity, of kindness and of strength.
Of truth and of grace.
You are sincere and honest. You do all you can to be transparent and true.
You have resolve. You have an inner strength within you that you display at times, and at times, few ever see. You have questions that few ask, you consider thoughts that less think.
You are good. You are blessed to own a way of seeing and understanding things that only extraordinary people can. You touch people in a million ways: whether you are on a stage or sharing in an intimate heart to heart.
How can one be so influential and yet so willing to listen at the sametime? Your gleaming smile provides a gateway to the warmth and love that inhabits you. Your actions are big, your heart even bigger.
You have a way about you, a capability to capture attention, to bring smiles back, a competency to turn things around, an inspiration to show lost joys where to be found.
Few people possess such a gift; God saw it fit to give it to you.
Few people possess such a gift; God saw it fit to give it to you.
Sometimes life is hard and you appreciate that. You see it and you don't run. Even if everything in you may want to run, you have displayed a trust In Him that everything will work out. You allow God to take the playbook and hand the plays over to you no matter what they may be.
It is that eagerness to see Him work within you that is so encouraging, that willingness for transformation that is so inspiring.
You exhibit all these things, and all so naturally.
Your existence is absolutely not by accident, perhaps even more so than any one of us. You were made to be extraordinary. Otherworldly.
Moving Mountains.
Moving Mountains.
Don't stress the decisions. Whatever path you take...
He.
Will.
Use.
It.
He made you.He isn't about to waste this life.
He.
Will.
Use.
It.
He made you.He isn't about to waste this life.
You are a miracle, a blessing, an amazing gift...
…and Sarah is truly one of a kind; a woman with purpose who loves you and is beautiful and smart and fun and real. She works hard. She loves even more. She has a true interest to serve. Her heart is for the oppressed. She desires that they meet a God of freedom, of righteousness, of justice....of Love.
You both have shown a real attention and determination to live your life for the ultimate glory of God. So, just know that He’s got big plans for the both of you in doing just that, and I hope we get to play at least a little part in it.
I'm encouraged by you.
We love you.
....
Sorry for using theblog-mouth-piece to say all these things instead of using the microphone providedto me at your reception =)
