A Note To My Big Brother

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“A Note To My Big Brother”
By Ray Reynosa

You have inspired millions around the world and somewhere in there, was me.

The difference was, I’ve had the honor of calling you my brother.

When you are up on stage speaking of whats possible in life, you didn’t just show me from afar. You pulled me close and exposed me to it firsthand.

You’ve always been my personal champion, guiding me, believing in me, and pushing me forward because you’ve always wanted more for me than you ever had for yourself.

And while you were doing that, I had the privilege of quietly observing you, learning from both the highest peaks and the darkest moments in your life.

From watching you traveling the world, being backstage and on stage at exclusive events, and experiencing a life you would think only exist on TV, all because you were willing to trailblaze a way. You didn’t wait for permission. You created the path and walked it with courage.

I’ve also witnessed what most never see behind the smiling photos.

The work and emotion behind it all at IMPACTtruth and Dreams Inked Publishing. The exhausting 16–18+ hour days. Brainstorming how to make ends meet. The relentless decision to keep going when quitting would’ve been easier. I’ve felt the heartbreaks. Ive witnessed the health scares brought on by the stress of baring it all. And yet still, you choose people first.

You always make sure the communities you serve received the very best. You make it a priority that your team was taken care of and has food on their table. Even when it meant you were left with crumbs.

Still somehow, you always found a way to persevere.

I admire you as a leader.
As a boss.
As a mentor.
And most importantly, as my big brother.

I admire your authenticity, your vision and your freedom from the weight of other people’s opinions. Your ability to show up so fully as yourself that people from every background feel seen and drawn in. You don’t perform connection. You live it.

I am incredibly lucky to call you my big brother. (I guess our 3 sisters are lucky too)

There are experiences, places, and ways of life I never knew existed, things I didn’t know were possible for us but you didn’t just show me that this life exists. You showed me that it’s closer than we think.

As I sit here in my home, reflecting on my life, my routines, my safety net, my defaults of comfort. Seeing you succeed once again, reignited wonder and curiosity in my soul.

You inspire me everyday to think bigger, grander and to enjoy life. 

Thank you for being proof.
Thank you for going first.
Thank you for showing me how to show up.
Thank you for being my brother.