This is Lil’ E. To most people he’s an average 11 year old. He plays video games, stays up too late and occasionally talks back. He has an attitude problem as big as his personality and a smile that can almost make you forget about it.
More often than not he is self centered, more than a little into himself, somewhat greedy and a little image-challenged. He is a walking contradiction, as are most pre-teens. He is both an angel and a devil, sometimes within a five minute span. He is moody, angry, challenged and challenging.
Despite all of these things, he is also the worlds best big brother for a certain three year old boy. He is caring. He is there to soothe owwies, to get his brother drinks, to give piggy-back rides, to patiently count the same four number cards for hours.
He is there to defend his little brother from any slight. He tolerates no person treating his brother any differently from any other child. He acts as interpreter when necessary. He sneaks lollypops and chocolates for little hands that cannot reach them and shares sodas without being prompted.
He is hero, champion, knight and fool, all depending on what his brother needs him to be. Lil’ E. didn’t have to be any of these things. This is his half-brother we’re talking about. He could have chosen to despise or distain. Instead he nurtures and protects.
As an example. For once this summer he woke up very early this morning. Woke me a half-hour early, thinking we were running late. He then woke his brother, gave him a bath and got him ready for school, then watched preschool T.V. with him until the bus arrived.
All without being asked.
To say he’s perfect would be a complete lie, both to myself and the world. To say that he is the perfect big brother for one small child is nothing less than the absolute truth. Lil’ B. idolizes his brother and I think he might just be lost without him.
I’m very proud of his shining moments, and there are many. They make the difficulties of dealing with a spirited youth who just happens to be just as pig-headed and immoveable as his father far more bearable.
Now, if he’d just treat his other younger brother this well…
Well, I can dream, can’t I?
Until later.
Peace. I’m out.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
This is so sweet. I hope Lil’ E reads it!
Julie,
The kid is/can be a terror, but when it comes to his lil-bro, he is a demigod. i couldn’t be prouder. Will make sure he reads it
I love that you’re doing this blog!
Donna,
I’m hoping that maybe something I write here will help another family with an autistic child. It can be difficult at times, but those difficulties are far outweighed by the miracles that our kids bring into our lives
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