My brother-in-law Jabier (J) lost his last-living brother, Jesus (Chuy), today. I am so sad and sorry for my b-i-l. Jabier was born into a large family (11 siblings) and is the baby; something I can relate to being the youngest of my own family of six siblings (now five). It is a scary feeling to be the youngest with odds positing that you, as the baby, will outlive your parents and siblings. It is a burden that brings great despair and despondency. Anyway, with gratitude and privilege, I can say I met J's mom and dad, both whom have been deceased for a while, and all his brothers and sisters. His parents were very nice people. His mom always offered me something to snack on whenever I visited. His dad was quiet but welcoming. His siblings were all different but each one was funny and mindful. To date, my bro-in-law J has survived five brothers and three sisters. J is now the lone brother to two living sisters.
It is sad how such a large family can dwindle to just a trio. My heart breaks for J. He is like a brother to me; he has been in my life so much more than my own blood brother was; my brother passed away last June (2021). J has been like a father to me, too. I had a wonderful father, but he passed away much too soon, so J, in essence, became a paternal role model for me. My bro-in-law took on many roles in our own family. He was a source of strength whenever our family needed him to be. He never asked to help, he just dove in and did whatever he could; often filling in any gaps left by sorrow, financial burden, or other life-hewn complications. J's ability to be there for others is stellar. I admire him very much. Watching him mourn another loved one, a sibling, is difficult. But, I will be there for J as much as I can; hopefully able to fill in any gaps without having to be asked to do so. Like J would do and has done for me and mine. Rest in peace, Jesus (Chuy) Hernandez.
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