If you ask my kids what matters most to me as a parent, they’ll both say: that they get along.
I’ve always told them this because the two of them will likely be in each other lives longer than anyone else. My deepest hope is that their bond is one of care, support, and love.
This morning was one of those proud, quiet-parent moments. It is the first day of high school—my son beginning his senior year, my daughter starting her freshman year. A “first last” day and a “first first” day, all wrapped into one.
I woke up early—something I rarely enjoy—expecting to have about a half hour with my daughter since my son’s senior class all went to the lakeshore to watch the sunrise this morning. A little breakfast, some quiet time together before she set out. But when I arose and entered the kitchen, I discovered that my son had surprised her. He was taking her to Starbucks, one of her favorite treats, on their way to school. Suddenly my thirty minutes became five.
And rather than being annoyed or disappointed, I felt only joy. Pure joy. Watching them head out the door together—big brother and little sister—sharing this milestone, and more importantly, sharing themselves with each other.
My blessing for them, and for all of us as we enter the Jewish New Year of 5786, is that this year be one of growth, of deepening connection, and of remembering that the love we nurture with those closest to us is the greatest gift of all.
