26/11/2010

A fraternal scientist

                                            
"People skills are often described as (a) understanding ourselves and moderating our responses, (b) talking effectively and empathizing accurately, (c) building relationships of trust, respect, and productive interactions.”
-Portland Business Journal.

 I saw him cry. I could have been surprised but it was expected, the death of an aunt is something difficult to overcome. Even more if the relationship between her and the three of us, Eric, Rafael, and I, resembled one of mother to sons rather than aunt to nephews. However, this was something rare as expressing his feelings and thoughts can be a difficult task for him. He is the type of person that does not smile in pictures, a person for whom expressing anger is natural, and making friendships is a bit difficult. As his brother, I know him better than anyone else ;and as an amateur social scientist, I could say I know why he has such difficulties with social interactions.

Anyone who has met Rafa knows how brilliant and knowledgeable he is. Anyone can notice his passion for natural sciences and mathematics; however, most people only see him from the outside. While most people call him weird and strange, I call him unique and atypical. Most people label him a nerd; I consider him young scientist and an intellectual. When it comes to personality most call him grumpy and unfriendly; but to me he is sensible to annoying things  … or beings, along with having limited People Skills.

One of the things people never get to know about him is his kindness and  bigheartedness. After reading his essay “Greetings, My name is Rafael Viluce,” the reader can notice some solitude and distance, along with a strong sense of goodwill and kindness. Usually, people do not get to know him nor have the opportunity to read his essay. This includes members of his graduating class. Due to his feeble People Skills, Rafa became isolated from his class.Still due to a handful of his peers, friends that served as bridges, kept somewhat in contact with the rest. However, Senior Year opened his eyes and those of rest of his prom. Rafa was partying, having a good-time not only with books but with music, drinks, and above all people.

Three things will never return: the arrow shot, the word said and the lost opportunity. Sadly, this class they realized what they had missed on too late. Only those with the highest People Skills managed to bring out the best in Rafa. People ought to learn two things from these individuals, especially at the beginnings of school, college, and work. Never let yourself be deceived by first impressions; patiently discover the true nature of your peers. One may never know what treasures you can find. If not, like what happened to most of his class, it can be late to enjoy each other's company to the fullest.

As for me, there it will never be too late as he is my brother; with whom I cherish in many moments. Let it be crashing in his bed just to bother him, running away from furious brother with a deadly look on his face or engaging in a deep and endless philosophical debate. Let me not forget to mention my deep admiration for his high mental capacity, good manners, and kindness. In addition, he is my brother; as such, I love him regardless of his People Skills.

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