Russell Gould
brother
Russell is my older brother. He's been here since I can remember (obviously).
Like many older brothers, he was mean and seemed to enjoy tormenting me when he fancied it.
Like many younger brothers, I envied what my older brother had- toys, friends, age ...
Thankfully, all that was just the common childhood experience. The younger years have worn off and I'm now counting the lessons Russell shared with me:
Older brothers (and just about everyone else in the world) need a little time to themselves to do their own thing and not be bothered by younger brothers (and/or just about everyone else in the world).
Younger brothers (and just about everyone else in the world) need to stop covetting that which they do not have and enjoy what they do have.
- That may be one of the best lessons Russell ever gave me. I eventually desired to be my very own person and enjoy the things that truly made me happy; I stopped wanting the things that made Russell happy. He helped me to pass the superficial and the jealous so that I could find the deeply, personally true, giving me no need to keep up with the Jones'.
Russell and Ryan (my first band!)
Russell was sporting pirate gear WAY before it was cool! Check out my Darth Vader shirt! (I still have the sunglasses Russell is wearing.)
Moving into our adult years, Russell has been a strong pillar of support. He regularly reminds me of his pride in me for what I have done this far. He's always looking out for me and checking in on my health and welfare.
I'm very proud of Russell, too.
He is raising a very well-behaved, highly intelligent manchild. Russell has guided my nephew (without the aid of parenting classes or any fancy new child psychology books) to become a creative, highly curious and very questioning, observant, peaceful, thoughtful, loving, discplined human being. Russell is nothing short of a great father. (Stands to reason ... he was raised by a great father - my Dad!)
In short, Brother Russell, like many older brothers, is a good man.
I'm certainly honored to call him my brother. I'm deeply moved to know that he loves me and that he supports me. I'm thankful to know that he is there for me. I cherish every memory I have of him and look forward to those that we will forge in the future!
Thank you, Russell, for everything you have given me and for the great man and great brother you are to me!
Happy Birthday!
I love you!
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"Remember that a government big enough to give you everything you want is also big enough to take away everything you have."
~Davy Crockett
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