How Friends became Family
Brother from Another Mother
I’ve always believed that you don’t choose your family—they’re assigned to you. That being said, my conventional understanding of family was parents and kids, the traditional core unit. Over time, my perspective expanded. Blended families, like mine, add another layer, where my wife and I each brought our own children into one beautiful package. Beyond that, I realized I could start choosing who I consider part of my extended family—whether it’s my basketball family, my community, or, in this case, someone I never expected to play such an important role in my life.
It began with something simple—a ride to watch a wrestling event. He was ten years younger than me and absolutely loved the sport. Those rides gradually turned into more shared moments. I started including him in hangouts with my friends, trips to the park, restaurant outings, and wherever life took me. If I was there, so was he.
At the time, he didn’t have many positive male role models in his life. I became a big brother to him—someone he could trust, seek advice from, and lean on for support. Despite our bond, we were polar opposites. He’s spontaneous, a boundary-tester, the ultimate wildcard and always late to everything. I, on the other hand, am methodical, a planner who avoids trouble, as predictable as they come and a time nazi.
Our differences often tested my patience. In fact, there were moments when I tried to put some distance between us. He had an uncanny ability to push buttons like no one else. Yet, no matter how hard I pushed him away, he always found his way back.
Now, looking back, I’m incredibly grateful for his persistence. The time I spent mentoring him and offering guidance has paid off in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I’ve always believed in the ripple effect—how a small act can create ever-growing waves. He embodies that principle in every way.
Today, he’s not just close to me but deeply intertwined with my entire family. He treats my parents as if they were his own—sometimes even better than I do! He’s always there for my three kids, no matter what they need. Whether it’s advice, help with a project, or just being present, he’s already on it. My two grandkids think he’s the coolest guy in the world. He spoils them endlessly, creating memories they’ll cherish forever. What’s remarkable is that he does all this without my prompting. It’s simply who he is—selfless and thoughtful.
Over the years, he’s become an integral part of every family gathering, from casual celebrations to big vacations. On our last big family trip, we even invited his own family, who are just as special to him as he is to us.
But his kindness doesn’t stop with us. For the past two Christmases, he’s taken my grandkids shopping to create gift bags for the homeless. Together, they deliver these packages to marginalized communities, teaching the kids about generosity and gratitude. His current personal project? He’s planning a surprise for his cleaning lady after noticing her hard work—a spa day or dinner and a show.
The list of his thoughtful gestures goes on and on. It’s funny—he always blames me for inspiring his giving nature. And every time, I’m torn between apologizing for his “big heart” and saying, “You’re welcome.”
Sure, we still butt heads over little things, and yes, he can drive me crazy at times. But I love him. He’s the little brother I never knew I needed and an irreplaceable part of our family.
Thank you, champ, for sticking around—even when I tried to push you away. You’ve made my life and the lives of everyone around us better in countless ways. You are, and always will be, my brother from another mother.
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Related Article 1: Blended Families — Blessed Ways of Life
Related Article 2: Can you be my Dad? — Blessed Ways of Life
Inspired short: Embrace Every Step
