As November rolls around, the idea of appreciating different people and objects is becoming more and more popular. Some people notice a friend whom they could never imagine life without. Others find a pet or family member to care for. I think about my brother.

He has been there for me my entire existence. When I was younger I believed that he deserved to stand on a pedestal looking down on me. His computer skills and smarts are uncomparable. He has always had his life in order, knowing exactly what he wanted to be since he was a young child. Throughout my life, as I have watched him, I have admired him. As he works towards his goal, he deserves to be known and have people thankful for him.

His actions and thoughts fill my life with joy. Whenever I ask for help in some form or another, my brother is willing to hear me out. Although he may not actually listen to me when I talk, or give me timely advice, he is always there in the end to help me with any problems I might have to the best of his abilities. Sometimes, he finds me after I’ve forgotten about it and still need to do it, like an unconventional alarm clock. 

A few years ago, he was attempting to teach me how to cook. Sadly, he didn’t know how to cook either. He found a lovely recipe that we had none of the ingredients for and decided to start cooking. We learned a lot that day: plastic can melt, parent supervision is not a recommendation, candles burn in heat. Despite our questionable choices and the overall outcome, he proved his reliability and care for me. I am unlikely to ever do something like that again, but I loved hanging out with him like that. 

Now, he has left for college. Although I miss him sometimes, I am glad that he has so many other people who care for him. I am thankful for everything he has done and the care he still shows when he calls every night with little hesitance. Sometimes, he gets me a stuffed toy he thinks I would like, for no special occasion. I am so thankful for his connection with me and everything he has done for me. He deserves more than just a few people to be thankful for him as he’s such an important part of my life. Thank you, Brother.