For the Love of Her Little Sister

18 months apart. They have the same toothless grins, but are as different as night and day. Sometimes Most days my girls fight incessantly. They fight over toys, who picks the music, who cleaned up more, who has a bigger piece of cake, who gets the purple bowl, the princess fork, the red straw…They are quick to tattle on the other, and take the blame off their own shoulders. Their fighting makes me want to pull out my hair. Their fighting has accelerated Shawn losing many of his hairs. BUT, every now and then, I catch a brief glimpse of the friendship I hope and pray they will one day share.

Yesterday, Lucy came in from bike riding, threw herself down on the couch, and said she felt too sick to eat dinner. Gigantic red flag when Lucy doesn’t feel like eating!!! Lucy loves food, and meals are the highlight of her day. Baked spaghetti is one of her favorites. Without even placing my hand on her hot forehead, I knew she was truly ill.

Caroline started working on something, but I didn’t know what she was up to. After dinner, she resumed her task. A little while later, Caroline presented Lucy with a “gift”, to help her feel better. She had written a note to Lucy, which read:

“Dear Lucy, I am so sorry you’re sick. I hope you get to feling bittr. I love you so much. Love, Caroline ♥ ”

On top of the note, she gave Lucy her two of her favorite erasers…a big deal to a kindergartener. She added, “I am going to buy you a Fun Dip at school tomorrow, with my treasure box money. Lucy…Do you want me to rub on your back? I can warm up the heating pack for you to help you feel better…”

She was truly loving on her sick little sister. It melted my heart, and brought a smile to Lucy’s face. I feel like I am constantly reminding them to treat one another lovingly, kindly, as they do their friends. Shawn and I pray for their relationship each morning, that they will grow up to be great friends and support for one another. For a brief moment, Caroline took these lessons to heart and put them into action!

This tiny glimpse of Caroline’s love for her little sister truly made my day. Now, I better press “publish” before Caroline returns from school, and the fighting resumes. : )