Live Accordingly: Brotherly Love

There is a special bond that can only exist between brothers and sisters. The unique love/hate relationship that accompanies sibling interaction really can not be found anywhere else. Along with the ability to transition between a screaming match and laughter within minutes, there is another incredible element to sibling relationships; the unyielding desire to protect them.

Anyone with a close sibling can probably relate to the natural instinct to lookout for that person. For me, this especially kicks in when my brothers begin to date. Once I hear that one of my brothers is in a new relationship, I immediately want to know who the girl is. What I really want to know is, "Is she good enough for my brother?" These guys, my brothers, were my first friends and best protectors. I can't help but want the absolute best for them. So once a new woman enters the picture, I am naturally a little cautious. Which brings me to the story of JC and Alexsis.

I remember when I first met Alexsis. She came in to Starbucks shortly after her and JC began dating. We met, and I remember thinking that she was quiet but seemed nice. Over the next couple of years, I got to know her better, and what I discovered is that she has an incredible connection with my brother.

JC is one of the most stubborn people I have ever known {no offense of course, I am the same way}, but when he is with Alexsis, his guard comes down. She makes him happy, motivated and keeps him strong. Together they make an incredible team not only as a couple, but as parents, as well. Alexsis has brought out an amazing quality in JC, a selflessness I have never seen before, and together they have built an incredible family.

While I don't know everything about JC and Alexsis, I do know that they are happy together. They have a quiet life together, and I think there is a simple beauty in that. They don't flaunt the details of their life together because it is their own, and it is special. I know that in the confines of their daily life, there is true happiness and love.

Seeing my brother happy is all the assurance I needed to know that Alexsis was meant to be in our family. They tied the knot in the company of family and close friends on Saturday, September 27, 2014. The ceremony and reception were absolutely stunning, but the real beauty came in seeing JC and Alexsis overwhelmed with happiness and love. Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. Fillmore.