Unexpected Gift

U n e x p e c t e d G i f t

for Tom

We didn’t expect you— a late arrival. After we thought we knew the us that we were. You altered our calculus— Cathy and I changed diapers while Mom went out to work and Dad adjusted to the fact of you. You two hit it off. Bigtime. You were and are the most like him. The rest of us couldn’t give a damn about football or baseball. We shared movies with Dad, but you’ve shared all his passions— he even coached your Little League team!— and his affability, gregariousness, and charm. So we need you, baby brother, our littlest and last, our very best. You can’t check out before the rest of us leave the room. Your mirth and wit, always tinged with love. Your letters—so like Dad’s own weepies—full of gratitude for Beth and the kids, Dad and Mom, and sometimes even us sibs. We need you at this dark time, in this dark year, to lighten our lives.