Uncle duty From afar
My twin sister and I have always been close. Growing up we shared similar friend groups, enjoyed family time, found a shared love of travel, and then in Jesus. When she gave birth to her first child, a joyful and loving boy, I was filled with one of those overwhelming, euphoric happinesses that only comes a handful of times in life. By God’s grace that feeling shortly returned when she had a second, a bold and energetic girl. A few years later my new name was roaring from their mouths, “Uncle Max!”
Present circumstances have me living several states away from my sister and her family, which I am hoping to remedy soon. Thankfully this time has not weakened our love and endearment. Vacations, holidays and phone calls are all the more meaningful and exciting, and I eagerly await them. When I see everyone, activities we enjoy are playing with action figures, general store, and laughing at ourselves through the Snapchat filters on my phone. They also have introduced me to some of my favorite movies. As a 32 year old, I never thought I would cry from a kids movie, but Prep & Landing had me tearing up next to them last Christmas Eve.
When we get together we usually do so at my mother’s house a couple hours away from where my sister lives. This gathering is extra special because my mom’s gift is her care and attention to her family. Not only does she make the visit individually wonderful for my sister’s kids, but she does so for me and my sister as well. Seeing the kids faces light up around her reminds me of my childhood and how grateful I am for her. My mom prepares for visits weeks, sometimes months before. Whether it’s a new banana bread recipe, elaborate decorations, thoughtful and sometimes quirky gifts, or crafty activities for the kids, she makes sure that our time spent together is cozy, fun and memorable.
My family is not traditional, but by God’s grace that has not kept us apart. The struggles of our physical distance we have thankfully been able to transform into a strengthening spirit and love for one another. This gives me great peace and hope for what our family and lives will look like when I do move closer. Whether that happens sooner or later I am excited to continue with my duties of being “Uncle Max” and being a grateful, joyful and attentive member of my family and community.
- Maxwell S