I am the older sister, of a boy four years younger. My
brother Steven. Steve. Stevie. Steve Yolen who lives in Brazil.
So the story of Miriam resonates for me--that oldest sister,
a seeress/author, a musician, a leader of her people who both works for and sometimes
defies the Lord.
“Speak truth to power” is my motto.
I am the one who handles
well, and mishandles at times, her role in the liberation of her tribe. Who
keeps the sacred memories alive, a teller of stories both historical and
allegorical. Who carries (literally and figuratively) the water that keeps her
brother and his followers alive. I found my strength in Miriam’s story. My
calling perhaps.
Though my brother has lived almost all of his adult life
in Brazil, we keep in touch. He is surrounded by children and grandchildren,
some his, some step-kids, all who adore him. He no longer needs me to watch
over him, to show him the path, carry his water. But I do, if only in my dreams
and hopes for him. I watched him become an award-winning journalist,
translator, book and magazine writer, plus the lead guitarist/singer in the best Bluegrass band in Brazil. (OK, he has admitted it’s the ONLY bluegrass band
in Brazil.) I am enormously proud of him, as Miriam was of Moses. But not so
proud that I forget to remind him who is oldest, who has more books out, who
has more followers on Facebook. My role also makes sure that I am alpha here.
He’s a corker and I am, with the well on my shoulder, often the cork!
@2020 Jane Yolen all rights reserved
