I was 4 years old and my brother Dan Paraschiv was 8. Already in 3rd grade, aware of life’s hardships – he was not a natural early riser and school was in session Monday through Saturday when he first started. Dan was always patient and kind. He protected me and taught me how to write my name, and I was sassy. When kids are 4 years old they think they know best. Their confidence is unparalleled. I remember he draped his hand over my shoulder in this picture and I took it away feeling annoyed. We played a lot together at this age. And his mere existence always made me feel like I belong, that I am seen and loved, no matter where I was ever after. He was a quiet person, introspective, respectful, honest and reliable. I still very much like my brother and I admire him and probably I still have a little sister sass (aka stubborn independence) in me.