Growing up with two brothers can be an adventure. They litter the house with sports equipment and dirty gym bags. Their rooms reek of sweat. Even little brothers leave their toys everywhere. Have you ever stepped on a Lego? It is painful. However, living with brothers have taught me lessons that I wouldn't have learned if I had sisters. For that, I am thankful. I love my brothers and all the joy they bring into my life.
1. Learn to fight back.
I'm 20 years old and my brothers are 18 and 11 years old. Before the youngest came along, my other brother and I fought quite a bit when we were younger. As we kept growing, we got big and tall. My brother just got bigger and taller than me. That made it easier for him to win. Nowadays, they gang up on me. Yet, they always teach me how to throw a punch or put up a block. While I'm not a violent person, these little lessons are quality time being spent together. Now when they try to attack me, I have a few tricks up my sleeve.
2. It's OK to cry.
Sure being boys means being tough, but there are times when it's ok to break down and let it all out. They've taught me that there is only so much you can do while being tough. It's ok for boys and girls to cry. They have always been there for me, even when they are laughing at my crying face. No matter how ugly it gets, we are in it together.
3. They'll say something about how short your shorts are.
When I was in middle school, I begged my mom to let me wear short shorts. Finally she let me wear them, yet my dad was not ok with that. After years of coaxing, he has backed off, and let's me wear what I want. My little brothers are a different story. I remember modeling a homecoming dress from my mom and my brother asking "Where's the rest of it?" Even when Dad isn't there to say something about, I can count on them to do it.
4. They'll never like your boyfriends.
No matter how nice or smart or good looking a boy I brought home would be, my brother's would always find a flaw. When I asked them about it , they simply said that they just want the best for me. They want someone to treat me with respect and love me. My brother's can spot red flags before I can and they will say it bluntly.
5. They're my best friends for life.
We fight and yell and get on my parent's nerves, but I couldn't imagine my life any other way. They give me my space to be a girl and never go into my room. I can't trust my food with them, but that's expected with them. They don't see me as just a girl, I'm one of the boys with them. They make me feel included and loved. They look out for me, and always will. To them, I am their little sister, even if I am older.
