During one of her infamous English classes, Mom had me read "The Road Not Taken," by Robert Frost. For some strange reason, I had always thought those forks in life would concern friends. I mean, you can't fork from family. How could you possibly? Especially if that family isn't just family, but co-workers as well.

I didn't see this as a separation, at least not a permanent one. This was a personal fork. All I wanted is what every other high school graduate wants - to go out on my own, and be my own keeper. But as Taylor helped me load boxes of my stuff into the family van, it was obvious that he was less than thrilled with my decision to attend Berklee College of Music in Boston.

So naturally, since he was so against my leaving, I wasn't quite sure why he wanted to come see me off. Truthfully, we haven't been hanging out all that much this past year at home. I really didn't see what the big deal was. I mean, I'd be home for Thanksgiving Break before he knew it.

"Hey! Sour grapes! Think you can carry this box for me?" I asked, kicking the box I wanted him to move with my foot.

"Sure," Tay said, flashing me a fake smile as he picked up the box.

"What's with you?" I asked, despite already knowing the answer. My brother had been giving me the silent treatment all through breakfast. Even if I was just setting ourselves up for an argument, at least he'd be talking to me.

"Nothing."

"Liar."

"It's just..."

"What?" I asked him. I really wanted to know.

"Don't you like home, or something? Why are you in such a hurry to leave us?" I sighed. I figured I'd have this conversation eventually, but it would be with my mother, not my brother. "Tay, this has nothing to do with you or the rest of the family, and everything to do with me. It's just something I felt I needed to do. I really can't explain it better than that."

Taylor just stood there, staring. It was as if he was trying to decide whether or not I was lying. And that's why I was hurt by his silence. Then he just turned and walked back into the house, just like that. He didn't understand. He didn't know the pain of awakening to a need for independence.