Uncle John Knocked Me Off My Pedestal
When we first got Uncle John from The Chicago Foundling home I was of course excited. I was 4 years old and was very interested in getting a new baby. Little did I know that this new addition was going to spark my competitive nature.
Our 2nd Christmas together - lookin' at his big sister
Mom told me that whenever they gawked over Johnny, I would start "tap dancing" and shout "look at me! Look at me!" Oh boy, the jealous monster was coming out.
Mom & Dad love me more than you...
I was probably around 7 or 8 and Johnny was around 3 or 4 - old enough to have a conversation. I don't know what we were talking about (or fighting about is probably a better description), but I thought I'd better break the news to him - our parents loved me more.
Johnny & I having fun - probably around the time I gave him the "news"
In my mind it was just a logical fact. They had me 4 years longer than him, so they had 4 more years of love for me. Nothing personal Johnny - we're just talking statistics here. Well, that and the fact that I felt I was more lovable. I was a smart, cute little girl and he was a wild devil boy.
His response was "No they don't!" Knowing I was right, I suggested we go ask them, fully believing they would agree with me. So we walk up to Mom and I ask, "Mom, tell Johnny that you love me more than you love him."
It felt like her answer was immediate - "Judy, we love you both the same." What?!! "But you've had me 4 years longer than Johnny, so you simply have to love me 4 years more!" She again reiterated that she loved both of her children the same.
When I think of this episode of my life I envision the proverbial bubble being burst over my head. It was a huge letdown. From this sweet little girl - this was WAR!!!
Pro shot
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