About two months ago, my bother Rick Andersohn found me here on ActiveRain. He used Google to do a name search and the rest became history today! When I was 5 years old, my brother and I were separated from each other due to one of those unfortunate events in life we all hate called divorce. I had looked for my brother Rick for so many years, and at this point in my life, I was ready to give up, throw in the towel, and come to terms with knowing that I'd never see him again!
Today, after more than 40 years, two brothers were reunited in one of those special moments that stopped time!! OMG!! Finally, I'd be coming face to face with a complete stranger yet knowing he is my brother. I don't even know who he is, or what he looks like. I wouldn't know where to begin if I had to explain some of the thoughts and emotions that I have experienced these past few days. It all led up to just one moment in time, 11:00am Today!
This photo was captured by my 11 year old son who had never seen or knew he had an Uncle. As my wife and I sat there anxiously waiting for Rick to arrive, it was really weird. I realized that my mind and body could actually produce nerves that I never knew existed. LOL!~ Just then, in walked Rick! A stranger, my brother, is this for real?? The world went silent, everything went into slow motion, and as we met for the very first time, I walked up and hugged him, told him that I loved him, and almost started to cry... It was an experience you just can't imagine unless you've been through it, or were there!
On April 20, 2008, I realized that 40 years in the desert is a LONG TIME! I once read in a best selling book somewhere, that once upon a time, some people were left lost in a desert for 40 years. Now I know what that feels like, and what I think it really means, at least for me. This morning, my brother got to meet my Gorgeous Wife, his little nephew Brandon, that will carry on the Andersohn name, and Me, his long lost little brother. What an awesome and extraordinary day!! It almost felt like Oprah or Dr. Phil would come walking in at any moment! LOL!~
We had so much to talk about and yet we never really even scratched the surface. There is so much to share, stories, adventures, life's challenges, old times, and then there's the questions. Awwww the Questions?!? I'm sure your imagination can run wild with that one. My brother is alive, he's well, and he's only an hour away. Can you believe that? 40 years go by, and for 14 of them, he has lived within 60 miles of me and I didn't even know it.
Here's an obvious lesson I learned today! Love strangers as if they were your brother! You never know, they just might be!
I never would have thought in a million years, that authoring a Blog on ActiveRain would help my Brother and Google find me one day. Just two guys with the same last name, total strangers, just a few miles apart, once brothers, and after many lost years, now best friends!! He's my Brother Rick! I Love ya Bro!
The sky was blue, there were no clouds, but it "rained" really hard in California today!! :-)
Oh I just love this!! The story was great, and the video said it all. Very happy for both of you, and thanks for the goosebumps so early in the morning. It is very nice of you to share this will ALL of us.
Brad, that is an amazing story, and an even better event!! Congratulations!! May you and your brother have many happy years getting to know all about each other!
My mother has a similar story. After she had met her long lost sister she planned a party for her. Everyone came and we all got a chance to meet. It was a very emotional day. My Aunt never had any children but was married. She had no idea my mother and her brothers had nine children between them and eight grandchildren and still counting! The amazing thing is no one spoke a negative word about the people involved in the reasons they were apart for so long. We were all so thrilled to see her we couldn't quit gushing!
I am very happy for you. My Aunt has now been in our lives for 10 yrs.
Brad, I can't even imagine what it must have been like for both of you. I am so happy for you and your new found brother/friend!
Brad, I know the feeling of being reunited with a brother that you haven't seen in 40 or more years. This same thing happened to me 5 years ago when my oldest son found my brother. We had not seen each other since we were teens.
Congratulations and may you have many wonderful years together.
Don R.
Brad - what an awesome day for you! I thought about your meeting all day and was wondering how it went. The video says it all!
Congratulations! This is one of the good things about the Internet. I love my sister and cannot imagine not having her in my life. She is my best friend and confidante. And, I hope you and Rick will establish this same connection. It is not only one of blood, but one of love, understanding, hope, and support. Enjoy, Life is Good!
Brad, we were thinking about you yesterday as we spoke to my sister in Germany whom we have never met yet. I know a little how you feel as I too am looking forward to our visit someday to Germany to visit my birth mother, brother and sister. This is so cool and we are very happy for you and wish you all the best in establishing a new relationship with your brother. Thanks for sharing.
Active Rain can be a powerful thing. I just tried Googleing my own name and Active Rain was the 5th thing to come up. Enjoy your new FRIEND.
I'm going to have to keep tissues handy when I read yours or McGillicuddy's posts. You people are killing me here! Congratulations on your reunion.
Tears in my eyes, I can feel your joy and emotions. Today is the beginning of a whole new life.
Brad, Congratulations on meeting your brother! I was waiting for the follow up on this story. Thanks for posting!
CONGRATULATIONS BRAD AND RICK!!
I am so happy for you both. Life has just begun in many ways. May you both enjoy it to the fullest.
Brad.... It is mind boggling how much the world has changed in the last 10 or 15 years. Glad to hear the connection went well!
Congratulations to the both of you. It has to be wonderful. I know many of us read your post when you found each other and were anxiously awaiting your actual meeting. Life can have wonderful surpises in store when you least expect them.
Hey Brad, Do you have a few tissues for me!!! That is so awesome, I'm so happy for you both. Lots of catching up to do I'm sure. Always remember the good times! God Bless You Both!!!
ps No need to answer my email, I figured it out. This really pales in the sight of you and your brother anyway, Thanks
Brad - Amazing. Amazing the power of technology. I can't imagine the nerves. Youa re right - treat everyone as they might be your brother!
Brad....I am so Happy for you! I hope you and your brother get to keep in touch and build a relationship. How sweet it is!!!
Brad - I am so happy for you. Thanks for the story, and the following words of wisdom: Love strangers as if they were your brother! You never know, they just might be!
I am so glad you found each other. And AR was a great help. I hope you guys get close and never lose each other again!
Brad it is just an amazing story. I remember reading your 1st post about your brother. I am very happy for you it must be an absolutely incredible feeling.
Congrats Brad. What a great story!
Good morning Brad,
Thanks for letting us know that you and your brother finally got to see one another. May the years to come be happy ones that you both share in remaining together!
Hal
Oh, how wonderful! I've been watching for this post. Thanksgiving and Christmas '08 will be different at your house this year! Too cool.
Hi Brad...Thank you for sharing with us. It is wonderful!
Cheers,
Kathleen
Brad, What a very cool story!!! Sometimes life gives us amazing things! I am very happy for all of you! Like Karen said Thanksgiving and Christmas will be so different this year!
Best,
Scott
Brad - I have also been waiting to hear about your reunion with your brother. I am really happy for you both! Have a great week!
Brad- That is just an amazing story man! Thanks for sharing it! I will definitely be looking for more updates in the future!
Congratulations on reuniting with your brother Brad, that is just incredible. So close and yet so far away, you guys look like brothers. Did you wonder if you guys ever passed each other maybe in a mall and kind of did a second glance?
Wow! What a great story. Congratulations on finding eachother.
We too have been through a strangely similar family journey. My long lost Uncle Bob. I didn't even know existed until I was grown with children of my own. It seems that he had been given up for adoption when he was a baby because the family couldn't afford another child at the time. When we met it was a very strange day, he looked a lot like my other Uncle but, had had a very different and in someways perhaps better life so it was the best decision for him. He had married and had children so we had a whole new arm to the family! My aunt had found him through the Internet as well. Very cool to include them, too. Thanks for sharing.
Still wiping the tears away! I am so happy for you!
WOW.. Brad... I'm overwhelm just reading your story... I'm so happy for you and your family. What away to go Active Rain.... I know that bogging can make a difference.
WOW.. Brad... I'm overwhelm just reading your story... I'm so happy for you and your family. What away to go Active Rain.... I know that bogging can make a difference.
Thanks for the update Brad! What a great thing to happen, I'm really happy for you 2.
Brad - I have waited for this update and i am so happy to see you have finally met with your long lost brother. Congratulations and I hope you and Rick have many years ahead to make memories to last a lifetime.
Brad,
Congratulations! I can't even pretend to imagine the feelings that you guys must have felt.
Brad: What a phenomenal story. Congratulations!!
Brad,
Of course your post speaks for itself and needs no comments to enhance its value!!! I was trying to think of something transcendental to add...those 40 years that the Jews spent wandering in the desert and your 40 years of seperation from your brother were both caused by external factors that could have been overcome if there were only more love in the world!!! And everywhere I read a LOL!~, I shed a tear of joy for you and your family! Thanks, Fran
Brad, kinda funny how doing business can turn in to such a rewarding moment. HUGE CONGRATULATIONS AND HEARTFELT THANKS, for sharing! Enjoy your new friend.
Isn't it amazing how much the internet has truly changed our lives.... Bless you and your family my friend
Wow!! I can't even fathom all the emotions that you must be feeling. What a miracle. I'm so happy for your family, Brad....
Wow!! I can't even fathom all the emotions that you must be feeling. What a miracle. I'm so happy for your family, Brad....
Holly molly....it sounds unreal....you even look alike...
Congratulations!!! What a life changing event!
Wow Brad! This is probably the best AR Success Story yet! I'm very happy for you and your brother.
What an awesome story Brad! I am so happy that you and Rick have found your way back to one another! WOW! I teared up reading this and I am just elated for the two of you and your families. Your excitement was just eminating from the page as I read it...just happy for you. Be Blessed and don't waste a moment of the time that you all are blessed to have one another.
OH My Gosh Brad, I am sitting here in our local Starbucks crying as I read your post. People are looking at me like; what is wrong with this lady?
Congratulation on finding your brother. This is another testimonial to prove the power of the Rain. Have fun and God Bless.
Brad - that is an incredible story. You guys do look alike. I'm happy for you, your brother and all your family. God bless.
I am so happy for you!! Glad you found him. Goes to show you never give up hope!
I think Anderson Brothers Real Estate Service has a nice Ring to it??
It's amazing stories like this, that make, an other than perfect market worthwhile!
-George
I think Anderson Brothers Real Estate Service has a nice Ring to it??
It's amazing stories like this, that make, an other than perfect market worthwhile!
-George
I think Anderson Brothers Real Estate Service has a nice Ring to it??
It's amazing stories like this, that make, an other than perfect market worthwhile!
-George
I am so happy for both of you, you can never have too much family and you are both truly blessed. Here's to the first of what I hope are manyfabulous days for you and your family.
That's amazing. Congratulations to both of you!!!
WOW! What an incredible story. The best of luck to you both!
What a true heart felt story Brad. I'm happy that you were able to reunite with your brother again.
YAAAYYYYYY!!!!
I was waiting for this blog!!!
Brad and Rick... There isn't just one anymore.... So this goes out to the two of you. Congratulations. It is a wonderful thing when technology works in ones favor. To both of you..."Welcome home".
Hi my friend, I'm speechless, a rare thing for me. All I can say is wow and thanks for shaing your amazing moment with us. I'm really happy for you both.
Brad:
Thank you for sharing your heart, your life so openly with all your AR friends/family. What a great day! Hopefully there will be more about this great event in your life. Inquiring minds want to know... tell all that you can ... because I think it gives hope and encouragement to so many people who read your posts.
Aweome ending to a neverending story. You do know the Lord played a great part in this?
I'm just an old emotional sap. LOL!!! You got me crying again. =)
I'm so glad you finally got to meet. I enjoyed the video. What an experience!
Brad, So glad you finally got together with your brother after so many years. Great post and video.
Brad, this story was incredible and amazing and am glad that I got to witness this awesome moment in your family's life! God bless you and your brother and your families!
Thanks for the story it's wonderful
I just read that for the second time and you nearly had me in tears!
I just read that for the second time and you nearly had me in tears!
Brad: This is such a GREAT story. I'm sure there will be lots to talk about. Congratulations on the family reunion !
WOW! I can see it's been raining here all day too! :-) Sorry for not responding sooner, my phone has taken on a life of it's own today, and has somehow become attached to my ear and will now have to be surgically removed! LOL!~ Thanks to all of you for these really great comments and once again, for all the love and support.
I know some of Rick's friends at work have been following this story on my Blog too, and are probably thinking, Man, are these people for real? If you read this post Rick, or any of the guys from work see it, now you'll get to meet my family here on AR. I'm sure based on these comments, you'll see why I refer to them as "my family!"
It was really kinda funny when my Brother asked me, "So what is ActiveRain, and what is it you do?" I just chuckled, but don't think I ever really answered him. I think I'll save that for a "rainy day" post. I'll get back to many of the awesome comments here as time this evening permits. My wife says we're going shopping! Uh Oh!! LOL!~ Gotta run... :-)
WOW Brad~ who woulda thought you could find your long lost Brother by writting Real Estate Blogs. That is awesome!
Hi Brad - so very cool. 3-4 months ago did you ever imagine how much your life was about to change? You're obviously doing the right thing; doing things right - whichever. Couldn't happen to a nicer guy. I like the new look. ROCK ON!
Hey Brad,
So very nice. AMAZING. So the next post will have one thing where you are very similar and one where you are very much different. Sort of like looking in a mirror???
List and Sell (but Family comes first) Gary @ RentonHomeFinder
I AM SO MOVED BY THIS STORY!!! CONGRATS AND I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU! Aren't you so happy that you are so google-able?
HUGS,
Cindy
Brad - this is an awesome story and I can relate. About 5 years I met an aunt (my dad's sister) that supposedly he did not even know about...I met cousins that I never knew I had. My dad had been dead for 15 years before we discovered each other. I wish you and your brother 40 more years plus together, only may this be the mountains of your life!
Congrats Brad! This is an amazing story!
Totally awesome! Thanks for sharing this with us.... your extended family!
Brad, finally! So glad to hear all went well. I think you actually look alike! That is soooooooo neat! ;-)
After watching your video, I think he's more "shy" than you are! Not quite the outgoing guy his bro Brad is, huh?
Brad -You're story made me cry tear of happiness. You are so blessed to have found your brother and I'm so happy you shared your story. Wow, AR is really working out for you in every way!
Brad, That is so cool that you were finally able to reunite. I'm sure there are many happy days ahead catching up with your Brother! AR and Google are awesome!
Brad,
What a story--a major life event. I hope you have many enjoyable years ahead with your brother. I'm happy for you!
THe older I get the more emotional and I 'm sure the tears would have been flowing. Have fun and enjoy the time you have together.
I am glad that you got to reunite with your brother. I have been separated from family and know how it feels to see them for the first time in a long time. For me, it was only a decade that went by. But it seems like forever!
What am amazing story! Here's to new beginnings for both of you as you get to know each other.
This is an amazing story. So glad this turned out this way for you. All the best to both of you as you catch up and enjoy the future.
Brad, very moving and encouraging story. I am very happy for you and wish you and your brother the very best.
Wow,
What a story.
BTW< the video did not want to play. Tried several times, in vain. Just letting you know. Maybe this is my problem, I do not know.
Good luck to you, brothers. You actually look alike a lot.
God bless you and your brother. Family is a blessing.
Brad - reading this brings back all of my emotions from 4 years ago when I found my dad - it is so cool - it was almost anti-climatic to me - for one reason - it was like we always belonged together and had always known and loved eachother even though it had been 40 years since I had seen him.... I was 2 when divorce caused our split - my sisters - they were such an added bonus - enjoy, cherish and love - it is a wonderful life
Brad, Great story Thanks for sharing Godspeed.
Congradulations, Brad. Blogs dont often make me cry, I wish you and your brother the best!
Hi Brad - I read your post from your feedblitz, twice, with my eyes watering, and just had to come here to read the comments.
May you and Rick have many opportunities to make lots of terrific memories together, and to think he's just an hour away! Your son has a new uncle - bet he loves that. Does he love music like you all do?
Awesome story, and very happy for you!
Ann
Congradulations, Brad. Blogs dont often make me cry, I wish you and your brother the best!
Brad, I'm so happy for you and your brother! My brother and I were split up for the same reason when he was 9 & I was 12. We didn't have to wait 40 years to see each other again, but it did crush us in our own ways. I had tears in my eyes. Your brother looks like a cool dude and you both look remarkably alike!
wow, now that's an Active Rain success story! wishing you both many, many more great moments together!
My heart just leaps with such joy as this story continues to unfold. What a miracle... pure inspiration. And I love the point you made about kindness to strangers because they just relly could be your brother. Wonderful perspective. (Some indigenous cultures don't comprehend 'stranger' because they never believe they meet one.) thanks for posting some great pics too! Your son captured the best moment. Thank you!!
(Brad - I've been away cuz I could never get your page to appear anymore... today I found a back door ;-)
Brad, finding family is always a great thing. I can tell you from my own experience of being separated from my sister growing up and then finding her after I got out of school and then meeting the rest of my family.
Brad & Rick, I'm so happy that you have found each other. Only 60 miles away from each other -- I hope you 2 have many many more visits together! :)
This Brad is another amazing story and I am so happy for both of you!
That is too cool! You can't fix the past, focus on the future and great times you'll have learning about one another.
What a wonderful story, now you can make up for lost time! Go fishing, vacation together, enjoy each other. Good luck!
Brad,
It's a very touching subject for me!! My brother lives less than 25 miles away from me and I feel we are a million miles apart. Cherish your new friend and brother!!! It must truly be a wonderful feeling. All the best.
Very cool, Brad ~ I'm very happy for you!
Brad, Thanks for sharing the follow-up to your very awesome story. How special this moment must have been for you, and how great is it that your son took the photo and was the one who experienced this with you. You just found a new path on this road called Life. Enjoy it. Best wishes to you.
Brad: I am so glad you FINALLY filled us in on the next chapter. I was beginning to wonder if you would leave us all hanging. I think this is an awesome true-life story. I think you NEED to call OPRAH or DR PHIL and share this story. Put that video on YouTube and perhaps you just might get some college fund money for Brandon. True proof of how blogging, Active Rain, and Google can change peoples lives.
Brad, that has got to be one of the most awecome stories I have ever heard. I an SO glad you have each other now. There must have been a hole in your heart for a lot of years. Reading some of the comments above makes me wonder what it is about the number "40"- it must be a magical number. First Moses, now you!!
I was hoping you would tell us the "story" of your reuniting with your brother, Brad! AWESOME is the only word that comes to mind. One more reason why standing in the rain can change a life, a business, a world! I LOVE AR! Thanks again! Steve
Brad, this is just so awesome and we're so glad that you shared your personal story with all of us.
Brad, you got me crying this morning....I am so happy for you and your reconnected family - brothers are the best - I am lucky to have 2. Thanks for sharing your story.
Nothing to say....but you two looked very happy at the reunion. It was a treat to see this, as I remember the Post where he had found you :) I really am happy for all of you.
Brad, It is so great that you finally got together with your brother! It is hard to believe that you have lived so close and yet so far! I hope you both have a great time getting to know each other!
I remember reading your first story and he looks like you even with his sun glasses on...amazing story and an amazing new beginning.
My Brother Rick -
I have to tell you all, my brother really is just like me in many ways! For example, He saw a comment here on this post and ended up emailing that member. I think he is as touched by your comments and support as I always am. Rick is not the kind of person to go on the web and become a social butterfly, but for him to send someone an email, really made me feel how much he cares about his little Bro. His time is so consumed by work and life that for him to write and email to someone, really made me feel that my Big Brother is being just that, A Big Brother! He's someone that I'll never lose again....
On another note, my computer crashed yesterday, so I spent most the day trying to get it fixed. All back up and running now, guess I had burned out the power supply. The geek squad guys thought maybe I was tooo "Active" on the computer! LOL!!!~ I told them, " Yep, that's me, Active Brad!" haha!
I am enjoying all your comments and sharing them with my family. I know Rick is reading them too (when he has time) and I am so grateful to have friends and family like all of you, but most of all, I have my brother back and for that, I will be eternally grateful! Thanks again everyone....
PS. Rick, if you happen to read THIS COMMENT, I want you to know that it's ok for you to comment here too.
Let's set another get together date to have a BBQ at my place! :-)))))
What a touching story - miracles do come true and never cease to amaze me....
Brad - if you put together a BBQ at your place I'd keep the date and time a secret! LOL After all, there are only 84,000+ of us on here and I don't think your backyard could handle ALL of us. I know it would be a family BBQ - and since we're all family .... (just kidding!)
Hope you and Rick get to spend much, much, much more time together. It's incredible to reconnect with such a special family member after all these years. The memories you will build from here on out will be special not only to you, but to your children. Just think of when they tell your grandchildren how Grandpa and Uncle Rick got back together. It's the stuff movies are made of. And dreams.
May you never waken from this one.
I am so happy for the two of you, may your family become tighter and tighter.
What a memorable and emotional event this must have been Brad. I cannot even imagine. I'm so happy for you and your brother...such an amazing story. Hope you continue to have wonderful times together and grow as a family.
Jeff
Brad- I read your post about your first contact with your brother and now you finally meet. This is a miracle and you are so blessed. It is one of the wonders of the Internet and Active Rain. Thank you for sharing such a wonderful and uplifting story.
BRAD - Out of all of the things that I've experienced as a result of being on AR, this has to be the most surreal. It does seem like an episode of Oprah. I'm glad that your family is back together after all of these years. Congratulations to you and your family.
Brad - I had a very similar situation with my brother - didnt know he existed until I was 18 years old when my mother told my sister that her and my father had given up their first child for adoption (during the Vietnam War, dad was in school...) so my sis asked me if I had known - I was like, nope - news to me! Anyways, I've met him and his wife and just like you enjoy having a brother everyday!!! Good luck and great to see you guys reunited!
Brad.....this is a wonderful story. congratulations and i cannot put into workds my feelings. Let me assure you they are warm and fuzzy.
Yea!!!! I am so happy for you both - I was in tears the first time I read ab out your brother - glad you guys got to get together so fast! Great video!
So very happy for you! (Both)
And he's a biker too!
This is way too cool for words. I'm so happy for you and for Rick that you two hooked up. I can't imagine how much you'll have to discuss and mull over as you piece together your youth and the huge number of years since you were separated. I hope you both get answers on the gamut of stuff....
Thanks for sharing this wonderful event. I'm thrilled for you!
Brad, darn I missed this when you wrote it. Been waiting in anticipation. To awesome that you met your "friend" officially called a brother. Great ThemThem to Rick, I'm so happy for the both of you and your families. Congrats.
What a heart-warming story. You never know what will grow when you plant seeds in the RAIN!!!
Rick, I'm so glad you two have found each other. You have an awesome brother, and Brad in returns has the same in you.
Hey Brother Rick!! - glad you popped in for a visit! Can't wait to see ya again, steaks, chicken, dogs, burgers, what's your favorite? I'll make it happen!! Isn't that funny and yet kinda weird? Every brother should know their Brothers fav on the BBQ! We have so much to get caught up on, just let me know when you can come over to the house! Love ya too Bro!!
This is Awesome ~ I have two brothers that I do not talk to much and it hurts inside after a while you go numb to the thoughts of having a relationship with them. You have given me more hope of this to happen for us. God Bless you and your Brother Rick.
Rick - Surf and Turf it is!! Let's go ahead and move this conversation to the phone or email, I don't want all my wonderful friends here to see how much "I love Food!" haha! It's starting to feel a bit like the Truman Show with Jim Carey. LOL!!!
I'll get the date and BBQ ready, but I think since you're the older one, I'm gonna let you cook! :-))) I'll get back to you with a date and time. Thanks for taking time to pop in here Bro, It's an honor and privilege to have your comments here. I never thought I'd ever see you again, let alone have you here commenting on my Blog! WOW!!! :-)))
BTW - "Give Me A Reason" is a song we wrote and recorded way back when Bad Company was in their prime! Man, I must be getting old! :-O
Brad & Rick~ I'm late to this post (so sorry) but I'm touched beyond belief! This is just another one of those miracles that comes from a larger place and makes a mark on our destiny! This is sooo awesome! Enjoy and love each other brothers:) Beers all around!
Brad, truly amazing. I am soooooo very happy for you!!!
UPDATE: Rick and I have only met once since finding each other here on ActiveRain, so I invited him over for a BBQ. He was concerned about burning the Q-ables, s