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When I watch my kids, and I see the primal level at which the sibling relationships are formed, then I completely understand what these unresolved adult sibling problems are based on. You know, 'Mom liked you better' and, 'You got your own room and I didn't.'

Many people don't have relationships to their siblings in adulthood, or they have superficial ones. It's sort of unfashionable, particularly in America, to be close to your family.

As you get older you have more respect and empathy for your parents. Now I have a great relationship with both of them.

I grew up with an older brother, and the bond between siblings is unlike anything else, and it can be a real journey to accept what that bond is once you both mature into it. Because it's not always what you want. It's not always what you expect. It's not always what you imagined or hoped. But it's one of the most important things in the world.

The oldest sibling always knows things that the younger ones don't.

In some ways, siblings, and especially sisters, are more influential in your childhood than your parents.

Your parents leave you too soon and your kids and spouse come along late, but your siblings know you when you are in your most inchoate form.

My sister and my brother, of whom I have not spoken before, were considerably older than I; it seemed almost as if we belonged to different generations.

Boundaries move with time. It's like being the oldest child. Your parents don't know what to expect, but by the time the little sister comes along, it's like, 'Oh, staying out late with a boy - no big deal.'

Sibling relationships are complicated. All family relationships are. Look at Hamlet.