Another Open Letter To My Sweet American Cousin Sister

DISCLAIMER: Most names have been changed for the sake of online privacy.

Hi Natalie, this is my second open letter to you. By now, you must have got an idea of how my open letters are. This one will be just a bit longer than a page, though of course I will again make it as interesting as people. So, here goes:

Natalie, I have been very fond of you; right from the time we were children. Then, I simply wanted to have as much fun as possible in my life; playing (mostly cricket), watching cricket, movies, listening to music and travelling by trains. Thus, my focus was less on relationships with people; except maybe my parents and grandparents (especially paternal). As far as people in my age group were concerned, I spent more time with boys than girls and in fact this is a huge understatement! My sister Sarah was more outgoing and spent time with both girls and boys; though of course she preferred girls and developed a strong bond with you. Thus, though I was always quite friendly with you; I am afraid I did not make much of an effort to get to know you. Of course, this was the case with all girls, including Sarah herself; though Sarah and I played and fought a lot!

Natalie, though we interacted less then; I still remember playing with you – in fact, this might make you go red; I would often lie down on my bed and lift Sarah and would do the same with you as well – though mercifully I never fought with you!! Ah, how it was to be innocent children without giving two hoots about all the troubles in the world!! I still cannot believe how you have matured since then, into a cool, level-headed, independent, dedicated and passionate lady; though you remain as sweet as you were as a child!! Of course, you have the perfect mix of parents to allow you to soar high and keep you grounded at the same time; and a brother like Nathan who helps you loosen up and bring out your fun side.

When I came to your home in Chicago for the first time, what struck me the most was that it didn’t feel like we were guests; more like we were at our own home – so warm and welcoming you all were; even the more reticent (then) Nathan!! We did so many things that I can’t even count; but the thing that will stay in my mind most was the fact that we were like one family rather than two families; something I will never forget for the rest of my life!! Of course, our tastes varied; for instance, you and Sarah listened mainly to pop music (as far as English songs were concerned) while I listened to alternative rock/metal like Linkin Park and Evanescence then!! However, that hardly made a difference to the relationship we shared!!

Of course, my favourite moments with you were during our trip to Ireland; rather, your guided tour of Ireland!! Again, something that might make you go red; I love your hugs – something we can call in Hindi as “Jaadu Ki Chappi”!! You were so brave to stand on the rock and pose when we were at the waterfalls!! I predicted that England would beat India in the Cricket World Cup game and you were shocked; however, I turned out to be right!! When the Ireland leg of our UK trip ended, I was genuinely a bit sad – not only because I enjoyed Ireland so much, but also because I would be missing your company during the rest of the trip!!

Natalie, like I said earlier, you and Anthony are made for each other and I hope both of you are having an exciting and at the same time very intimate married life. Of course, when I find a prospective life partner; I might have to take some tips from both of you!! Anyway, I hope Anthony takes good care of my sister. Also, though, as mentioned earlier; we didn’t interact a lot; I am glad we are chatting more often nowadays and I am glad you take time out of your busy life to reply or at least react to my messages. I would love our bond to grow stronger over the years and remember; I am forever here for you. In fact, any time you feel down, I am only a call away; though of course we have to keep the highly significant time difference in mind! Even if I miss your call, I will always call back at a convenient time. So, stay blessed Natalie and keep that cute smile on your beautiful face!! I will end with this beautiful quote: “Cousins are people that are ready made friends.” — Courney Cox