Siblings

Coming from a large family of ten siblings, we only appreciated our bonds when we grew old enough to understand what family is all about.

When we were young we used to fight and argue over petty issues. Jealousy reared its ugly head many times and there were also occasions when we felt that one or two of us were favoured above others.

It certainly was difficult for my parents who had ten children all just a year apart. Father was a travelling salesman while mum was a primary school teacher. They had a hard time trying to make ends meet.

We only appreciated what our parents went through when we grew up and had our own families. They always instilled in us the need to be close knit and to be there for one another.

This stood us in good stead as we went through family crises, such as when cancer struck. First mum was stricken with it, then my younger sister, followed by my father. Through the tears and the agony we got closer. My sister emigrated to another country and another sibling went over to help her when she had to undergo chemotherapy. Later when another two siblings were diagnosed with different forms of cancer, we rallied round and were very supportive. This made a difference.


Through these experiences we drew closer, brothers and sisters. We learnt what it meant to be family, that we could count on one another in times of crisis and need and no one can break this bond that binds us.

We also celebrate birthdays and the Chinese New Year is one occasion when we get together to further strengthen our bond.



It is to our parents that we owe this closeness and the joy of being siblings. We in turn bequeath this to our own children and grandchildren that they will also know the joy of being close, that family matters above all.