You only need one to celebrate today, but many have several. And some of us might roll our eyes and swear we have too many. Whether we were an inseparable pair, a thoughtful threesome or a gregarious gaggle, April 10 belongs to us because we are sisters and brothers. It is Siblings Day, and that embraces the majority of us.
If you grew up as one of a trio, you have something in common with the Wright brothers. While Wilbur and Orville were making aviation history, their sister, Katherine, kept them aloft financially by managing the family’s bicycle company.
For those of you who came of age in a crowded house, imagine how that exuberant environment inspired the Marx brothers. The five siblings built a wonderful legacy spanning 30 years across vaudeville and the silver screen.
Not all of us run the family business or work as world-class comedians. Still, being sisters and brothers endows us with surprising, life-long advantages. We understand hand-me-downs. We know how to compromise, cajole, argue and make up. We can deal with the frustration of being ignored and we can experience the joy of sharing with someone who really understands.
Siblings Day has not achieved federal status. However, it is officially acknowledged by 49 states. In 1995, Claudia Evart established a foundation dedicated to reuniting siblings separated by uncontrollable circumstances. It was created to honor her brother and sister who were lost to accidents as children. Just think about that.
It’s enough to make us want to give each other an extra big hug. It is more than enough to make us appreciate how fortunate we are to have someone so close who shares so much. Whether we are a pair, a threesome or a crowd, today is a good day to be grateful for our sisters and brothers.