Thoughts of brotherhood and family:

 

Being six years younger than my brother, I always held him in the greatest esteem.  Not only because he was taller than me (until I was 14), but because he did everything he attempted with such excellence.  His accomplishments, even as a young man, were plentiful.  People simply recognized him as capable and confident, the go-to-guy, problem solver, decision maker.  And he was usually right!  Consequently, he quickly rose to the top of organizations and teams, i.e. president of Key Club or captain of the basketball team.   He could build a tree house with his bare hands (ok, he needed a hammer), or rescue me from attacking yellow jackets (I disturbed a nest).  

 

He really was a lot like our father, Sam.  In fact I think his friends used to call him by that name.  Both Barry and Dad were generally reserved emotionally, quiet at the dinner table(how could any male get a word in with mom and sister sandy seated nearby), thoughtful, reliable and had a taste for Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer.  Of course Barry didn't drink until he was 21.  

 

The whole family was so proud when Barry was named valedictorian of Shamokin High School.  His subsequent scholarships and summer jobs enabled him to attend the illustrious engineering school, Lehigh University.  Little did I know at the time that I would one day matriculate at Lehigh's arch rival, Lafayette college.  Initially I thought I would also major in engineering thus following in the foot steps of my big brother.  But I quickly realized that Barry's skills and aptitudes were much different than mine.  Psychology was my major, and today i still work as a Mental Health Counselor.  Funny how we can look at the talents of another and wish we had the same skills rather than thanking God for who we uniquely are.  

 

Barry's career led him to New York, Connecticut and finally North Carolina.  I always enjoyed tracking him down and visiting the family.  Seeing Jeff and Cheryl was such a joy.  You couldn't ask for cuter kids, except for mine of course. Over the years visits became less frequent as I nurtured a family of my own. Barry served as my best man which honored me greatly. If you could have seen him at my bachelor party as the top man for the 3 tiered pyramid we built.  Oh he's not all business.  Ask anyone who has seen him play the guitar while singing, "It ain't my fault I'm handsome".  Pure classic!

 

Now family reunions, weddings, and sadly funerals occasionally dot our common calendars. "Charlotte is a long way from Rochester", we both say.  I wish the visits were more frequent. Not because he is smart, or talented, or wealthy or wise,  but simply because he is my brother. He is in my heart, and nothing can take that away from me.  With great respect and love, Jeff