October 11, 2023
The Guiding Hand: A Sister’s Love for Her Autistic Brother
“Keep an eye on your brother.”
I blurted it out without much consideration, absorbed in the chaos of managing my children on my own.
The words were meant for my 5-year-old daughter regarding her 8-year-old brother. Their dynamic is far from typical because my son is autistic. He often requires reminders to stay safe as his attention can be fickle.
We were at soccer practice, and I was setting up camp chairs. Fearing my son might wander off, his little sister listened and went over and held his hand, a gesture she had done automatically before. However, this was the first time I said those words. The first time I directed her to do it.
As the words left my mouth, it dawned on me that this isn’t the standard sibling dynamic. In most families, it’s the older sibling who shoulders the responsibility of watching over the younger one.
Typically, it’s the older sibling entrusted to look after the younger one. The realization left me a bit sad for both of them. Of course, neither of them gave it a second thought; it’s their norm, the only reality they know.
There’s a beauty in it all though. The way she instinctively knows to help her brother, and the way he accepts her guidance—it’s love. I hope that might evolve over time.
I cherish the way she cares for her brother, and his acceptance of her support.
Change is inevitable and I don’t know if they will always be so willing, but at this moment, their connection is pure, and I hope that bond lasts forever.
Written by Jaime Ramos of Jaime Ramos Writes
