By Jeremeeh Kousse
Jeremeeh Kousse is a playwright. A storyteller and a comedian.
He is also a crypto researcher.
From his collections: Tales from the Savanah 10.
In a modest household in a bustling city, two little boys grew up under the same roof, sharing laughter, dreams, and the trials of life. Their names were Sam and Peter. They attended the same school, ate at the same table, and played in the same streets. Yet, their paths diverged in ways no one could have foreseen.
Sam, the elder of the two, was a prodigy. From a young age, his inquisitive mind and nimble fingers hinted at a future in medicine. He excelled in his studies, often staying up late into the night with his nose buried in textbooks. After graduating at the top of his class, he went on to medical school, where his brilliance shone even brighter. By the time he was thirty, Sam had become a renowned brain surgeon, celebrated for his skill and dedication. He married his college sweetheart, Maria, and together they had four beautiful children.
Peter, on the other hand, was more laid-back and hands-on. He loved working with his hands, fixing things around the house, and helping the neighbors with their shoes. Unlike Sam, Peter struggled academically but found joy in simple, practical tasks. After finishing school, he became a shoe thinner, a humble profession but one that brought him contentment. He was well-liked in his community, known for his friendly demeanor and hardworking nature.
Tragically, Sam’s life was cut short at the age of thirty-six due to a sudden illness. His death left a void in the medical community and a deep sadness in his family. Maria, now a widow, was left to raise their four children alone. She often spoke of Sam’s dedication and the lives he had touched, keeping his memory alive for their children.
Peter’s life took a different turn. He married at forty and had five children. Though his profession was modest, he instilled in his children the values of hard work and integrity. As they grew, they pursued opportunities abroad, each one carving out successful careers. Peter’s small house, once filled with the noise and chaos of a large family, became quiet as his children moved away.
Now, at the age of ninety-five, Peter reflects on his life with a sense of fulfillment. His children, though far away, visit him often and ensure he is well cared for. Despite the physical distance, their bond remains strong. Peter’s life, though not marked by the same acclaim as his brother’s, is rich with the love and respect of his family and community.
The story of Sam and Peter is a testament to the unpredictable nature of life. Two brothers, raised in the same home, took vastly different paths—one achieving fame and facing an early end, the other leading a humble yet long and fulfilling life. Each, in their way, left a lasting legacy.
