Happy Sibling Day 2012!

Do you have a brother or sister? This is a simple and innocent question, right? I used to think so too until…until my one and only sister was kidnapped…until we became the parent of an only child…until I saw the pain in another’s eyes when asked this question. Of course no one asks this question with ill intent yet for the only child or the sibling living as if he/she were an only child due to a tragic loss, it can sometime sting.

I remember the first time the school took “sibling” shots for the yearbook. There was a big deal made yet for the only child, with not even a sibling at home – she felt excluded. Siblings are a gift and a blessing.

As I read the Oswego Shopper this weekend about upcoming events at ARISE I learned something new. Today is “Sibling Day”! Although it isn’t a “national” holiday yet, it is a recognized holiday in some states.

Claudia, a native New Yorker, lobbied for this day after the tragic death of her brother and sister.  Her efforts started in 1996 and 3 years later, success. Claudia A. Evart established the “Siblings Day Foundation” in 1999. Presidents “Bill Clinton (2000) and George W. Bush (2008) both signed Presidential Messages recognizing the holiday, and in 2001, even former governor George Ryan issued a proclamation acknowledging National Siblings Day.” (1)

She selected April 10th in honor of her late sister, Lisette’s birthday. 

Today’s blog is to honor our siblings – all of our brothers and sisters! Almost instantly, from the first word written I thought of the sibling living as an only child or those born into this role. I want to encourage you to look beyond your bloodline. Through our relationship with Jesus Christ, we all have the opportunity to have a multitude of brothers and sisters, in His family.

I may have lost my one and only birth sister and no one could ever take her place, yet through my new birth and relationship with Jesus – I have learned it is acceptable and healthy to have “sisters” in my life. Heidi would never want me lonely and isolated.  I’m thankful to have so many siblings today…more than I could have ever dreamed of. Between my sister and brother-in-laws, sisters and brothers-in-Christ…I’m abundantly blessed.

Claudia A. Evart founded the “Siblings Day Foundation” to highlight the special and unique bonds we have with our brothers and sisters. I read many articles in preparation for this article and a few talked about the bond between siblings is sometimes stronger than that of a parent and child. I’m not sure it is stronger, but is different. So today I celebrate and honor my wonderful sister, Heidi M. Allen AND all my brothers and sisters through marriage and my relationship with Jesus.

In memory of my sister, Heidi M. Allen – Happy Sibling Day everyone!

“The siblings bonds are life-long relationships usually lasting from cradle to grave.  It is usually the longest relationship of a person’s life and typically much longer than a mother’s and father’s relationship. Siblings Day strengthens the family unit by reminding us that a bond with our siblings is forever a special gift. If you are fortunate enough to have a sibling, you know the relationship has a tremendous impact on our lives.  It is important that we understand how vital it is to cherish, love and respect our brothers and sisters in the tradition that was handed down by our parents and grandparents.” (2)

I encourage you to pick up the phone, send an email, send a card or note, and do something special for your brothers and sisters today! Remember, just because you are an only child or your sibling may have passed – through a relationship with Jesus…you will NEVER be without a sister or brother to call on when you need a friend! Be blessed today… 

Siblings Day Website:
http://www.siblingsday.org/

Children’s Literature To Share with Your Kiddos:
http://litforkids.wordpress.com/2012/04/09/april-10th-national-sibling-day/

 FOOTNOTE:
1.     http://www.makeitbetter.net/family/holidays-and-celebrations/fun-facts/2786-national-siblings-day-is-april-10
2.     http://www.siblingsday.org/fact-sheet