My BroDad.. A Dedication to Kenneth Mullen, Jr.

       At thirteen years old, Kenneth Mullen Jr. could not even imagine the future impact that he was about to have on the life of his new, baby brother Keith... It was at this moment, when he basically had to assume the role of “man of the house.” This new obstacle was going to be a challenging, significant, and stressful one for him, with all sorts of pressures no teenager should ever have to deal with. Especially being that, he did not have a true father head figure for himself, with the little time he had to grow up. He was forced to mature quickly, and as a result, his own childhood was curtailed. It is because of his selfless sacrifices he has made for my family and me in which I am, will continue, and will always be forever grateful of. 

        My brother does not only give definition to the word man, he surpasses it. And by watching his life experiences, and taking it all in as a learning experience, I have been able to become one, myself. Without his guidance, perseverance, sacrifices, and hardships, I might not have graduated from high school, or even so much as dreamed of going to college. But because of his actions and influences, not only am I a college graduate, I am also on my next endeavor currently pursuing my master’s degree in business administration. Since he was not afforded the same options as I, I feel like he lives his life through mine. And therefore, when I accomplish my goals and overcome my obstacles, he is achieving his too. Throughout the entirety of my academic and social life, my brother has always made himself accessible to me for absolutely everything from advice, to help, to personal ATM, to even just listening. He has been right there beside me through every step of my life.

        Although everything is not always friendly and stellar between us, no disagreement or argument will ever change the admiration I have for my brother. I will always listen to what he has to say, and I will do anything and everything possible to show my appreciation for all he has ever done for my family and me. I sincerely love, respect, and treasure the extraordinary person he is, and for how he has helped me become the person that I am today. He has been a friend, a mentor, a father, and of course a brother… my brother.

- Keith Mullen




written May 2007



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