Yoda's Journey

Today, August 7th, is my brother Al's birthday. He is younger than me by 26 months. There is very little I can remember of life without him. It seems he was always in my life and by my side. So much so that he says he did not learn to talk until he was five. If asked his name, he would look at me, and I would answer. We have complementary personalities. He says I was a protective older brother. I don't believe I was as protective as I could have been. I do feel regret about the times I was not. This is not about protecting younger siblings.

Five years ago this coming November Al was operated on for cancer in his left bicep. Cancers of the muscle are very rare. The good news is he did not lose his arm and is in remission. For me, I began to fear I would have to face life without my brother Al.

Al is one of those 'good guys'. He is a rarity among men. He does not hurt others. He built a passive solar home in the Arizona desert. He uses no air conditioning. He is easy going and soft spoken. I can not remember a time he lost his temper. Children love him. He is a great uncle and a great father. I am a more cautious, aggressive and materialistic person. I use Al as an example of how life is when you are a kind and gentle person. I admire him. I hope I never have to live life without my brother Al. I hope the world produces more people like Al. Happy birthday Al and many more.