A Brother’s Love My brother Walter Lee Givins, Jr. was small in stature however he was blessed with a heart so big he was able to forgive what I deemed egregious offenses committed against him. His willingness to forgive is a rare “gift.” I am hoping Walter’s example of unconditional love and my own desire will be sufficient to motivate me to work toward acquiring this “gift.” If Walter had not been my brother but a stranger that I met through some chance encounter, I would have still been in awe of him; his unwavering faith in God, capacity to care about the suffering of others while bearing the enormous weight of his own adversities and harbouring no bitterness or resentment, made it almost impossible not to be. A short time ago I told him that he was my hero I think he was surprised as I don’t think he truly knew how special he was or and how his courage, humility and determination was an inspiration to me and other people. My mother never met Walter yet her principle that love is not just a word, rather it is an action and is visible, was the sustaining force in my relationship with my brother. God blessed Walter and I with many opportunities to demonstrate our love for each other. Our relationship was an amazing experience that has yielded several life lessons. As I come to terms with his physical transition, I will comfort myself with his memories and remember to not just tell but show the people who remain in my life how much I love them. Walter…Thank you for loving me enough to show and remind me.