BAGGAGE OF BROTHERHOOD

Mission Accomplished. 

After a month or so of planning, I was able to pull off surprising one of my best friends of nearly four decades, or as I call him my brother.  Though I am an only child, he is one of the closest friends in my circle, I call his family, my family as well.

My brother and his daughter made plans to fly from Cleveland to visit his Mom and younger brother (my Jewish Mom and my little brother) and their respective life partners in Raleigh.  I got wind of this and contacted my Mom and told her my intentions and she was game for it as was my little brother.

Fast forward to December 26, 2025, I almost gave it all away when I signed off a final text with him to say, “See you later!”  I arrived on my flight about an hour prior to him and then had the pleasure to surprise greet him as he came down the escalator.  After recognizing my voice greeting him, he still had no idea where it came from.  He took a double take not just once, not twice but at least three times, I said, "Hey Stephen!" before he first spotted me.  I am certain he heard and recognized my voice but didn't know where it came from until, I stepped in front of him and welcomed him with a hug.

As they say the rest is history.  This is what true friendships are about.  It’s not just about being present to make new memories and catching up on life but being there in person in their time of need, regardless what that need may be.

Thank you Michelle Langel and Jack Berry for extending your gracious hospitality during my stay.  It was great seeing you Nicolas Langel and Claudette Cardounel it was great catching up and spending time with you.  Emily, your proof to make every day count as time does speed by faster than we can keep up and the importance to make every day count. I can’t believe you’re 16!

Lastly, Stephen Langel I enjoyed being able to spend some time catching up, laughing like old times, reminiscing and creating new memories.  We can't go so long without a visit!

Cheers to you all!

May New Year 2026 bring all my family and friends blessings of health, happiness and all that you wish and dream.

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Stop yelling, talk with me,
As if I give a damn.
Take a breath, talk with me,
As if I feel your pain.
I’ll listen, talk with me,
As if I’m somebody.

I am not just your friend,
In times of all life’s joy.
As you pour your soul,
Filled with raw emotions,
Into the open space
Between your heart and mine.
I am here to absorb,
Those painful moments too.

I hear pain in your voice,
Watching you fall apart,
With every word you speak.
Leaving me unshaken,
Yet, I remain grounded,
As I reassure you,
I am here for you now,
And all your tomorrows.

I am here to help you,
Carry all your baggage
Of despair, fears and tears.
I bring brand new luggage,
Filled with what you need most,
Empathy, love and hope.
I replaced the tired ones,
That caused you all your hurt.

I know a heavy weight
Lifted from your burden,
As you spilled your heart out,
All you held deep within.
I felt your body talk,
I answered without words,
With an acknowledgment
Of a few quiet nods.

With each sigh, you let go
Baggage weighing you down.
Your heartfelt tears dry up,
Before leaving a trace
On your unshaven face.
Slowly uncovering,
Then revealing, the man
I met decades ago.

I watched you carefully,
As you set free your thoughts.
Every last ounce pulled you
Closer to falling into
My eagerly awaited
Welcoming embrace
In helping you release
Pain you held way too long.

Life shifts without warning,
Like a game of poker.
Whether a royal flush,
Celebrating life’s wins
Or knowing when to fold.
Much like life’s unknown twists,
Hoping a better hand
Is around the corner.

It’s then I remind you,
As always, I am just
A phone call away or
Just a few hours by
Airplane or a car ride.
I promise you, my gift
Of always to be there,
In your greatest time of need.

If you listen closely,
You will hear the voices
Of both our dear mothers,
Sharing life’s wisdom and
Love for us, as they say,
That’s just what brothers do!

Greeting Stephen at RDU
 Airport on 12.26.25