Addy

Adam Kristopher Benson.

Although I am an optimistic person, life can really stink at times. You may wake up one morning and say, "Hello self! Today is going to be a great day. I will smile and enjoy whatever may come my way". But when things don't go the way you planned, or people aren't so kind, it's more difficult to maintain your initial optimism you possessed at the beginning of the day. The only thing that can always make me smile is my brother Adam.

Adam is 26 years old. He was born september 21, 1988. Even if you tried to forget that very anticipated day, he wouldn't let you due to frequent, joyful reminders starting as early as three months in advance. Adam's birthday is considered a national holiday in the Benson home.

With welcoming bear hugs, contagious smiles, and jubilant laughter, Adam is always a crowd pleaser and often times considered everyone's best friend. But we all know Addy and I are the real best friends. You can always count on him greeting you first with a warm hug and then asking about how your family is doing. He loves you no matter who you are, where you come from, or what you have or haven't done. Adam loves everyone. He expresses his love by spreading joy. I believe a motto Adam lives by is, "Leave people better than when you found them", for that is exactly what he does. He is the perfect example of loving unconditionally.

But don't let the flashy smile fool you, Adam has many hidden talents that not a lot of people are privileged to experience. Adam looooves to dance. He is king of Benson family dance parties. It isn't a party until Adam has busted out his famous chicken dance out on the dance floor. Whether while watching movies, listening to music, or jammin' in the kitchen, Adam is always hopping around the house. He also enjoys singing a lot. The Muppets, in particular, bring out his inner Whitney Housten. Adam has the mentality of a seven year old, so Barney and Sesame Street are also a frequently listen to CD. I have grown to love childish movies because it is another way I get to spend time with Addy. We shared a room this summer, and Hook was one that we watched over and over again in my room. In a sass battle, Adam and I would go back and forth while saying, "Adam is a codfish", and he saying triumphantly, "Oh no! Rachel is a codfish". 

I feel very blessed to have Adam as an older brother. He is a good listener, comforter, and buddy to have around. He brings joy to all he meets and truly does make you feel loved. Through Adam, I have come to know my Savior, Jesus Christ, better and have come to realize that God sends us angels to guide us. They do not have to be on the other side of the veil to be considered an angel. Adam is an angel among us.