To my siblings

To my siblings,

I’m sorry. Those are words that I wish could come out of your mouth, but instead, I’ll let them flow out of mine. I’m sorry for being a hypocrite- for casting your ideas off just like the way you cast away my feelings. I’m sorry I let little things destroy my image of you; like a tea-bag in hot water, I let the small things that came out color, stain, and change you from something pristine, clear, and perfect to dark and unwelcoming. It was I that did not listen. It was I who lacked humility, who was impatient, and inhospitable. While I don't agree with what you say, that is no excuse for incivility. I know now that conversations are possible. I know that there are better ways to explain one’s side. The key is to ask more questions. I vow to do just that. As I write this letter to you asking for forgiveness for the lack of patience, humility, and hospitality that I gave you, I implore you to work to have these virtues when you converse with me. I will not go away. I will not be silent and I will not hide. I will continue to say what I feel the need to say, but I promise to listen without thinking of my next rebuttal. I promise to remember that your words don’t define all that you are- and to remind myself that the way you treat me and love me are more important and more deserving of attention.