Being the youngest child to an older brother and older sister, I never took the time to appreciate them while growing up. I took for granted the time we spent together and the jokes shared. I didn’t think about the influence my siblings had on me. I didn’t think about the path they carefully created for me. I didn’t think about how much they loved me. Older now, I can see these things in both my brother and sister. Being a little sister to an older brother, there are a few things in life that older brothers just need so appreciated for.
1. Having an older brother taught me to have respect for myself.
This wasn’t something that I really learned until I was older, but it is something so important. If a guy can’t treat you with the same respect that your brother does, why are you around that guy? Don’t waste time on someone who does speak to you kindly, help you out or respect everything about you.
2. You need to learn how to fight like a boy.
This statement doesn’t exactly match up to the words for me. I am not a professional at wrestling or even throwing a punch, but my brother taught me not to leave a confrontation crying. Just because I’m a girl, doesn’t mean that I should not stand up for myself in a fight, or even say no. An older brother teaches you how to be tough or at least, act like you are.
3. An older brother is always there to protect you.
Whether it be from a scary movie you watched as a kid, to that guy that creeps just a lot too much, your brother has your back. I learned this with much, much appreciation. For times that I felt scared or didn’t know what to do, I knew just who to call or talk to. My brother never questioned or acted passively. Instead, he was always the first to help and come to my rescue many times
4. You need someone who always believes in you.
Self-confidence is something that I really lacked during different stages in life. When that happened, I always had my brother there supporting me. An older brother that never doubts you is something to really appreciate. From encouraging me to make it through soccer tournaments to pushing me to pursue what I want in life without doubt, my brother was always my rock of support.
Us three kids are older now, and I think we have really learned the importance of siblings and looking out for each other. There are some things that I will be forever appreciative for that my brother has shown and taught me.
