Many people interpret having a real life means to go out, have fun and do whatever you want. Perhaps part of that is true, but as I frankly put it in my last post, I've grown up with a different perception and experiences. There are people out there who have never gone for thrills and traveled to amazing places. Many don't have the opportunity and many can't afford to do it, yet they are people who are the most acquainted with life. They know the pains, sufferings, but also the joys and beautiful things in life. Have they been robbed of life? No.
Spending my days staying at home to care for my brother did not deny me of being involved in extra-curricular activities. It did not deny me of community activities. It did not deny me of seeking an education. It did not deny me of employment. It did not deny me of my church activities. Yes, it took a lot of time that I could have spent somewhere else, but in reality, I don't think there were many other choices to make that was a better use of my time.
My brother has taught me some valuable lessons. He is the best example of patience I have ever known and I can feel his peace. The family has always discussed what we think goes on in his mind because he cannot communicate a lot, but I have a strong feeling that we know more about him than we realize.
To sum it all up, I do not feel myself "robbed" because of this. It is a privilege to have this type of person in my life. No, I have not lived as many believe life must be lived, but I have seen the littlest of miracles occur, the blessings of family unity, the blessings of caring for another, and so much more!
