Brothers, Friends, and Sledgehammers

My younger brother is a very astute individual; I'm lucky to have him as my brother. In may ways we are complete contrasts; for example, he is pursuing a career in medicine, I am pursuing a career in technology. When we get together, we are both frank and share thoughts and feelings freely.

During a recent dinner, he made the observation that finding out your real friends is a simple enough task. You drive a sledgehammer and see what is left standing. If people can survive that, you know how strong the connection is. It's a shame to have to do it, but something that must be done.

Viewed in this light, trying times are not something to be regretted but something to build on.