Growing up, I had always wanted a little sister. Though I now love my two younger brothers, I had always been heartbroken that I didn't have anyone to share my clothes with, watch Disney princess movies with or even have those character-developing screaming matches that my other cousins with sisters had. I had begun to accept that this wasn't in the cards for me, until my mom poorly hid a pink baby-seat in our basement. A few months later, at twelve years old, my wish had finally come true.
I'll admit, those first few years were rough. But as time has gone by, we've both done some growing up, and I'm constantly amazed at what an incredible person she's becoming. Despite being her big sister, she has taught me so, so much.
1. It's okay to ask questions.
Like most children, she has such a curious mind. Whether it's learning about my own childhood or things about the world, she's never afraid to ask what's on her mind. As I've gotten older, I find myself more hesitant to ask a question in the fear of looking unintelligent or being annoying. But every time that my sister meets a new person, she unabashedly fires away and encourages me to never to be shy about learning.
2. Stop caring about what other people think.
When my sister needed glasses, I helped her pick out the frame. When we returned to the store, I was mortified to discover that the design that we had picked out was actually Cars theme, complete with bright, orange racing bolts on the sides. I considered re-ordering a new pair, when my sister expressed to me how much she loved the lightning bolts. I remembered from my own third-grade days that kids aren't the nicest people on Earth, but reading my mind, she said, "I don't care what people think because I really love my new glasses."
3. Inner beauty counts.
We were watching one of those TLC shows about plastic surgery, when my sister, watching in the periphery, asked why some people weren't happy with their own appearances. Offhandedly, I explained that I wasn't really sure (a lie). "But doesn't inner beauty count the most?"
4. Imagination makes everything more interesting.
MLPWonders, which is my sister's YouTube channel, boasts 20 subscribers. My sister writes, edits, creates and voices her own videos about the popular show My Little Pony. Her videos speak for themselves.
5. Family is everything.
My sister cherishes family dinners, road trips and any excuse for us to all be together. Though it's tempting to be in my own bubble at school, she is a continual reminder that my family is the most important part of my life.
6. Spend time with those who are present.
It's tough to remember to put our phones away when it seems like we're always connected, but whenever my sister spends time with me, we try to engage in activities together, like baking or reading. Her excitement for "girls' weekends" when we can just dance and be together, always motivates me to try to be as present as possible when we're together.
7. Children understand more than what we give them credit for.
I made a promise to my sister a long time ago that I would always answer her questions. Though some questions have been easier to answer than others (ie. Why do women get to have the baby?), I realized that I wasn't doing her any favors by placing a superficial age on when she should get answers. If she's old enough to ask about them, she's old enough to receive an honest answer.... though I will admit that it has been a real challenge.
8. My attitude and actions affects her more than I think.
Whenever I see my sister listening to songs that I might have played in the radio or repeat phrases that I've used, it's reminded me that I'm one of her role models ...or at least I have the potential to be. In being a woman who is confident, carries herself well and embodies the ideals that I try to verbalize, I can help shape her into an even better person than she already is.
