Do you have cheerleaders in your life? Who are they? How many do you have?

Now that is the kind of a brother that I think anyone would love to have. With not having siblings I cannot imagine what that is like...but it sounds very special. Having someone like that to discuss things in such an open, honest way and knowing their feedback with be objective is truly a blessing. It is good to know that you have such a fair-minded and caring ally within your family. It sounds as though his ability to constantly 'show up' and be present to you when you have something to run by him shows that within the openness of your bond there is trust...and much love. Good to know you have a cheerleader like that..from what I know of you it sounds as though you do a lot of cheer leading for those you care about too. See another example of the 'what goes around comes around' idea. The closest thing have to that other than David or course is my gal pal of twenty years. She functions in the same way as your brother...and it is wonderful to have a caring, realistic sounding board that will give you their truth whether we may want to hear it or not. As you said their honesty is what builds trust. Thanks for adding your input to this topic too...you've been a busy gal! I was going to sign off and was delighted to see my buddy showing up for more on-line conversation time and didn't want to log off until I'd responded back because I always like to hear what you have to say! Fun sharing and caring as always, Raia

I remember that discussion...I think it was one of the first ones I responded to because at that time I was having some challenges with my girl friend of 20 years and I wasn't sure how it was going to work out. Thankfully we are back and our friendship is stronger than ever because we successfully 'handled our own stuff' and met in the middle with new understanding and awareness about what we both needed. I sincerely hope you will be able to do the same and that your mom and brother will find a way to resolve differences and move on. Life is too short to hold grudges or not find a way to heal the pain and loss or unresolved issues. I can see how much you reach out and do your best to treat others well. You do that every time I chat with you or read your discussions or comments elsewhere. That is just one of the many reasons I value what we have as on-line friends. So long for now..luv and good stuff, Raia

I am indeed very lucky to have a brother like him. But as of now, we have no communication because of family problems between him and my mother. Actually I posted a discussion about this, I think a month ago, and I knew it was a little personal but I just wanted to vent out my frustrations at that time. I truly believe in the saying "Do unto others, what you want others to do unto you." And basically, I simply like to make others happy. Others might think that I'm trying too hard to be nice but if that's what they think, then I can't do anything about it. But as long as I'm making others happy, then I'm satisfied. Yes, what goes around, comes around. And that's what my brother does.And I'm very proud to have a brother like him.

How wonderful it is to read this, especially since we've been chatting about how to overcome overwhelming feelings when they come up. It sounds like you have some really strong support systems in place and I am happy for you. The fact that you and your mom have such a strong bond and that you feel loved and supported is a gift. My mom passed away in April of 2005 and not a day goes by that I wish I could pick up the phone and chat...or go out for gal-pal days on the mall the way we used to. Even when we are frustrated by our Moms...no one will ever take their place in our hearts. Nice addition to the topic...keep on keeping on my friend sounds like you have a lot going for you! Cheers, Raia

Yes, my Mom's definitely a gift from God. ;-D I know EXACTLY what you mean about gal-pal days to the malls. I used to do that too with my Mom, but now that we're half a world away, all I wish for her is health, happiness, peace, and I hope she can enjoy life as best as she can. Moms are THE BEST indeed! ;-D

Hello to you as well my new friend, I often wondered what it would be like to have siblings. I was an only child and my Mom did a great job of being a den mother with most of my friends hanging out at our place. She wanted to make sure I didn't grow up with an 'only child syndrome.' You know, self-aborbed etc. Anyway the relationship you have with your sister sounds like a gift that keeps on giving. From the sound of your discussions and responses you appear to have a big heart and a gentle spirit...just like your elusive butterflies. Good to know you have a life-long cheerleader...we all need them.