Thinking of Family

Sometimes when you are distanced from someone, you not only miss that person, but you also start to really see that person more clearly. It sounds strange, but I think it's true. During the eighteen years of living away from my hometown in Wisconsin, I've kept in contact with my parents and brother, via phone, email and visits. But I've also realized how important they are to me, and how proud I am of them.

Today, I honor my mother, father, and brother.

The photo above was taken in my living room in July of 2008. My parents and brother had come to visit me in Florida for a short reunion before my move to Finland. It was a time to reconnect, laugh, remember old times, and share some wonderful meals. From left to right: Dad (John), Mom (Maritza), my brother (Brian), and myself.

My mother. Originally from the Dominican Republic. A vibrant, generous, creative woman with strong spirit and the ability to light up a room with her laughter. A visual artist, culinary master, and amazing dancer. A storyteller of comedy and drama. Carries herself with style, always. Worked in the Peace Corps as an instructor of Spanish, and studied international law in the Dominican Republic. She knows how to comfort me, even from thousands of miles away. She has taught me how to handle situations with grace and strength.

My father. Originally from Wisconsin, with German-Swiss heritage. A gentle, patient, thoughtful man with a great of sense of humor. A teacher, philosopher, musician, and avid reader. Curious about the world. Keeper of histories. Met my mother in the Peace Corps, at a training center in Vermont. Taught civics, psychology, history, and sociology at high schools in Wisconsin and within in the Dominican Republic. I admire his ability to impart knowledge and wisdom to others. He inspires me to explore my landscape of own mind, and that of the world.

My brother. Lives in Illinois with his wife Anne-Marie, and their two wonderful daughters. A perceptive, patient, quiet man with determination and steadfastness. A problem-solver and person of knowledge. He knows how to let loose – when appropriate – and have a good snowball fight or rubber-band war :) Earned a doctorate in cognitive psychology. He is a dedicated father and husband, and good listener. I admire his attention to detail, his intellectual prowess, and sense of motivation. I miss our days of goofing off together as big brother/little sister.