Sisters and Friends

Just as blessings and what seems like curses come at times so do the tornadoes of emotions between sisters. Friends can provide support and voice of reason when there are family disruptions.  Our mind and heart does battle and there are no winners but plenty of scars.

Many of such thoughts came to mind while watching Downton Abbey and drama of words between two sisters, Edith and Mary.  Awful, hurtful, angry words were exchanged with Edith packing and leaving the family home. 

Mary who is historically cold, spiteful, and insensitive finally understands the damaging situation that she created and the ultimate hurt that she caused. She is hurting too, quite unhappy, and genuinely wants to apologize, which in itself is truly rare, but does not know how.

Edith, the timid, kinder sister who has experienced more sadness than any of the family, finally found her voice and stood up for herself against her sister for the first time. She also actually had the courage to leave.

It was actually Edith who made the successful effort at reconciliation plus she also had the best lines of this episode: “In the end you are my sister…  Our shared memories are more than our mutual dislike.”

That last part of her dialogue sums it up perfectly.  Shared memories are priceless and valued considerably more than the temporary dislikes or words or actions seen or experienced between family members.  At least it is for me.