My husband and I remind them that their relationship as brothers is forever. Long after we are gone, they hopefully will have each other. Nobody else will have experienced the same things, been raised by the same parents, and eaten the same meals together as they have.
James Patterson wrote, “Half the time when brothers wrestle, it’s just an excuse to hug each other.” And even a day when they tussle, wrestle, and poke each other relentlessly with physical and emotional jabs, they still say I love you each night before bed.
Even in those moments of chaos, there's an unspoken "I love you" communicated
through every tussle, tease, and shared glance. My sons worry about each other, seek approval from each other, and use me as their go-between to express their feelings because, in this pre-pubescent stage, they are not comfortable expressing that level of vulnerability. As their unwitting mediator, I translate their hidden affections, hoping one day they'll find the words themselves.
As my boys grow into men, I hope they will evolve into adults who have a relationship like the Kelce Brothers. There will be conflict and forgiveness, joy and sorrow, and a time when they need to be apart in order to form their own unique identities. But when they come
together, I hope they see in each other not only a reflection of their own genetic material but a true comrade and friend who is there for them in all
ways, no matter what.
Their life experiences will weave the rich, complex tapestry of their brotherhood, ensuring that no matter where life takes them, they have an unbreakable connection to come back to—a connection that transcends the mere fact of being brothers and elevates their relationship to one of deep, enduring friendship.
Because in the end, that's what brotherhood boils down to—a complex, beautiful mess of love, annoyance, rivalry, and undying loyalty, all wrapped up in a four-letter text that means the world.
Bruh.
Photo Credit Seth Hoffman