My brother Roddy was born 34 years ago today. What's strange to me as his big sister -- nearly 3.5 years his senior -- is that he died when I was still just 33 years old. The math says he died more than 3.5 years ago, more than doubling our age difference.
While my parents -- along with some relatives and friends -- are raising money for type 1 diabetes research via JDRF's Walk to Cure Diabetes (go Team Hot Rod!), I'm wallowing in bro/sis photos spanning nearly 30.5 years. The most recent, with Rod as my "Man of Honor" (poor guy), surrounded by my girlfriends (cropped out), is amazingly similar to the goofy shot of us in our middle school years to its right.
Anyway, it's very hard not to be sad today. But the silliness found in so many of our family photos helps.
Bomboneria "Bombonella", Buenos Aires
4 hours ago
5 comments:
This is a lovely tribute. He was a beautiful man, and it must have been painful for you to put together the collage of so many memories. You two looked very close.
I'm an only child, so I can only imagine what it'd be like to have/lose a brother. My heart goes out to you.
Thanks for posting this.
As Cintra and Rod's mom, I am crying as I write this, but my husband and I are blessed to have had smart, funny, generous Rod for thirty years and still have our wonderful Cintra. Two great kids! Thank you, Cintra, for writing such a nice blog post.
Sweetie, the pics are wonderful. He lives in your memory, and that's something. Not enough, I know. But something. Use it and cherish it.
I've had imaginary conversations with my father that felt almost as real as when he was alive. Usually just after whatever song I have stuck in my head finally fades as I'm trying to fall asleep, but before I decide to really turn the lights out mentally. It's not the same, obviouslty, but it still counts and for me, it helps.
You know where I'm headed next, of course. Count me in.
Actually, I'm not entirely sure where I'm going next. Thought I was, but spent 10 minutes looking around and wasn't sure. No, this isn't an analogy. :) Where's the best place to donate?
Cin, I'm coming to your post a few weeks later-beautiful pictures. It was nice for me to see the pictures of you two in your parents' home last month and get to know Rod a little through those photos. BTW, Sofia still sleeps with the blue cow and talks about her friend, the Spanish-speaking "little guy." Love to you, Gabs
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