Day 1465

Relatives can have so many similarities, but often their individual personalities are the real deciding factor. Take these three…Uncle Sam in the back with nephews Charlie and Hank in the foreground. They certainly share their “looks” and “paw on the leg,” but their individuality is marked. In the photo, Sam is taking everything in while Hank looks at the photographer with love. Charlie throws a look over his shoulder as if to say, “What’s up? Treat Time?” Their unique personalities defy their similar appearance!

With four children of my own, I understand uniqueness. Four humans could not be much different, but instilled within is love, compassion and integrity. It might show up in different ways, but they certainly make the world a better place.

When I went to high school, my older sister proceeded me by three years. She was a phenomenal student. I can’t remember how many times I was identified as the younger sibling who they expected to do great academically. Hmmm… I always tried hard, but never quite reached the Valedictorian rank of my older sibling. I did join band and a number of extra-curricular activities where I could shine in my own light.

As an educator, I never had two children from the same family that resembled each other in their personalities. They always had the same base of family beliefs, but most were as different as night and day! Perhaps that is a good thing.

If Charlie and Hank had the same personalities, how would I tell them apart?