Little sister greatest gift of all

Editor’s note: This is another of TGI staff sharing stories of favorite Christmas memories. If you would like to share a story of a favorite Christmas memory to be published in TGI, please email it to thasslinger@thegardenisland.com

My little sister Jessica Marchant was born on Aug. 7, 2006. I was 14 years old and on Christmas day in 2005, I was given a bit of information that changed our lives forever.

We all know that being an only child can either be a blessing or a curse. Some enjoy the attention and everything that comes with being an only child. But for me, things were different. I enjoyed the attention, don’t get me wrong, but I’ve always envied those that had siblings. It was always something that I wished for. I remember the days that I’d wish on shooting stars. But once I became a teenager, I finally let go of the wish that a sibling was possible. I knew that if it was meant to be it would happen. I directed my wishes to prayers and let God lead the path.

Here is a poem that I’d like to share about how my sister became the greatest Christmas gift:

It was Christmas morning and there was not a soul in sight

Just me and myself, like I was wondering the night

I walked toward the tree and all the presents were there

Sitting neatly in a pile, waiting to be shared

Out came my mom, then appeared my dad

We sat near the tree ready to unwrap the presents

One by one, we said thank you and appreciated the gifts

My mother then asked if I got everything I desired

I replied softly no and she asked what was forgotten

For many years I wanted a sibling, to add joy to my world

My parents all knew this and I hoped for a girl

One more gift was missed and my mother said here

She was saving the best for last and I was full of cheer

You’re having a sister, my heart was all warm

My childhood dream, was a dream no more

It’s now been 8 years since that day

Our lives have changed in much greater ways

Many memories were cherished, many were saved

Not a day goes by that I would change my wish

Sometimes for Christmas the best gift of all

Can’t be bought like a toy from the mall

We need God’s help and we ask and we pray

I did and we did and I got my gift to this day

I’d like to thank my parents, Mark and Tammi Marchant for always being there for me and making this gift possible. We all knew you did this for me. And thank you for my sister, Jessica for being the best sister I could ever ask for.

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Chloe Marchant is TGIFriday editor and TGI paginator.