Dear Ariella B.,

My brother was in Israel for the year and only recently came home. He is already going back to Israel next week! I love hanging out with him and playing games together. He also makes me laugh. I am happy that he is going to enjoy his second year in Israel, but at the same time I will miss him very much and don’t want him to leave. What should I do?

Sadly,

Heartbroken Hanna

Dear Heartbroken Hanna,

I understand it can be difficult to be separated from your brother for so long, but that’s no reason that you have to cut off communication with him. There are many ways to feel close even when you are far away. For instance, you can use Zoom. You can talk to your brother while seeing him. This can make you feel close even if you aren’t technically.

Additionally, even though your brother sounds like a great guy, after spending the whole summer together, you could probably use some space from each other. Enjoy his being away. Maybe, play in his room while he is away… I mean… nothing! It’s OK to miss someone you care about who’s far away. But luckily in only one year, he is coming back. So enjoy your brother-free freedom once he leaves. I know I would, I mean I’m sure other people would probably really appreciate it.

But for now, make the best of your last two weeks together. Who knows? When he comes back you might have a new sister-in-law!

Until next week,

Ariella B.

Ariella is an elementary schooler who wants to help you with your problems. She can be reached with your questions at [email protected]