If you have a younger sibling, you know it’s not always an easy gig. They come into the world full of promise and joy, and then BOOM, things start to change. One moment you’re laughing and joking around, and the next, you’re at each other’s throats threatening the other’s future existence. While we know that you love your sibling more than anyone, we understand that there are some…warnings you would have liked to receive before they entered the picture:
1. They will fight you.
At a certain age, younger siblings stop caring about the fact that you’re older and will start to fight back, both verbally and physically. Be prepared for bruises and name calling.
2. Your stuff will go missing.
Nothing is sacred. If you have something that your younger sibling wants, they will take it, they will keep it, and they will act like they have no idea where it went.
3. They will seek your guidance.
As an older sibling, it is your job to make sure that you guide your protege in the right direction when they seek advice. If you don’t, they will be quick to throw you under the bus and tell your parents that it was all your idea.
4. You will want to protect them from everything.
You’re going to have to constantly battle the urge to become a helicopter sibling in order to prevent them from ever getting hurt. They are going to have to experience life on their own and you have to accept that.
5. “Knocking” is not in their vocabulary.
There are no boundaries in family, so even though you just got out of the shower and you’re completely naked, your sibling will mercilessly bust in on you with no regard for your privacy.
6. They will bug you at all hours of the day.
I don’t care if you are on the phone with the president himself, if your sibling is bored, they will demand your attention immediately.
7. Your secrets might not be safe with them.
This is especially true when they are younger. Even though they will expect you to keep all their secrets quiet, they will snitch on you in a heartbeat. There’s no confidentiality.
8. They will mimic your every move.
Anything you do, they will copy, and your parents know that. If your younger sibling does anything wrong, you will be the one getting in trouble for not “setting a better example.”
9. Eventually, they’re going to stop being so little.
Yes, they are your little sibling, but it does not mean that they’re actually going to be little forever. They’re going to get older and go on dates, and you’re going to have to deal with it, despite how undeniably weird it makes you feel.
10. Despite your endless frustration toward each other, they’ll end up becoming your best friend.
Having a younger sibling is like having a live-in best friend because they’re just like you. They laugh at all your jokes, and they listen to all of your problems. Plus, they literally have to love you no matter what, which is pretty awesome.
While having a younger sibling can be annoying, it’s also one of the greatest blessings anyone can receive. I mean, let's be real: It's not easy to find someone who will love you even after finding out how gross you secretly are.
