A letter to Mariah

Dear beloved sister, Do you think we are protagonists in our own stories? Do you ever wonder what would have happened if we were simply allowed to just live our lives? Why must protagonists be from broken homes? Would adversity in growth make people more interesting? This is to say that I do not resent the lives Mother had given us. She made it much better than what Father could have done or expected us to do and become. Despite that, I merely wish to be allowed to select my own path. I want to be able to see the kids grow up in a world where they revere and rejoice in their own titular stories that would be their own lives. Make choices, and make mistakes, but without the hardships in their childhoods. His can be a story of avoidance. Hers can be a story of resilience. Theirs can be a chronicle of obedience and rebellion. But the crucial thing here is that they get to choose. I want the ability to choose, heartache or not, it is and will be my decision. I want to provide a good future for my children, for our children, and a good home, so I am making the difficult decision to estrange myself from you and our family. We were just expected to be too much, Marie, my dearest sister. Michah and Monah won't understand. Mother is too indifferent regarding the world and our lives. I thought you would or at least be willing to listen to me. I hope I do not burden you three too much. I'm sure it will be okay, I am still alive after all. Your brother, truly and always, and please remember that, Toby