My second oldest brother has now retired from a successful career in civil engineering. From as early as I can remember, my second eldest brother has always been a deep thinker. As a youngster he was accomplished in formal debating. In addition to those things, my brother has always had a knack for looking at things a little differently than others, in addition to a person who enjoys the outdoors and exploration.
My second eldest brother always brought unique gifts. I don't ever remember getting a simple toy from him. I do remember getting a picture he had taken of an abandoned cabin I think he happened upon while hiking, it was affixed to a piece of wood that acted as both a surface for mounting the picture and a frame. He took pictures from different angles, with different lighting, which allowed others to see something they may have otherwise missed. Another time on the occasion of my birthday, I remember awakening to a present by my pillow and it was a small music box with a bird on top. I still have that music box and it is special because of who gave it to me and the thought that went into it. My brother once gave my mother a picture frame with a felt background, some moss used to make a tree and a pounded out piece of gold as the sun - at least I think those were the components! That was one of many gifts and keepsakes my mom proudly portrayed in her China cabinet, used for keepsakes not china - well china was underneath.
My brother has always had an appreciation for nature and for taking time to really see it and enjoy it in it's uniqueness and beauty. I've always appreciated how my brother lives out the importance of perspective. He was OK with trusting his perspective even if it differed from others. He is also a good example of the importance of experience influencing changes in perspective. Finally, his life demonstrates how sharing our unique perspectives can have great impact. Take time to see things, anew, to see the nuances of things, situations. of people and personalities - it's important.
