9 Reasons To Be Thankful You're A Big Sister

I didn't become a big sister until I was 14-years-old, and honestly thought that I would hate it. Seven years and three little siblings later, I realized that I could not be more wrong. This year, I know exactly what I'm most thankful for, and it's the three smiling faces that greet me when I walk through my front door. And here's why:

1. You learn compromise.

Being a big sister, you're expected to understand that sometimes you won't come first. You learn that your parents only have so much time and attention, and sometimes it won't be given to you. And that's ok, because compromise is important.

2. You know that you'll always have a friend.

Even on your worst days, your little siblings will be there to hold your hand or hug you when you cry. No matter what you do, they'll still be in your corner and will always keep loving you.

3. You've learned to give the best advice.

You're the one your siblings run to when they have a problem, and you'll always try to help fix it. Your advice is now so good that you've considered becoming a therapist.

4. There's no better feeling than being a role model.

About a year ago, my eight year-old brother looked at me and said "I want to go to Notre Dame one day". When I asked him why, he said, "Well you go there and I want to be like you". Not only did immediately start crying, but my heart also melted in my chest. There's literally no better feeling than knowing someone looks up to you.

5. It makes you a great listener.

Whenever your little brother or sister has a problem they can't solve or a world that's crashing down around them, you're always there to lend an open ear and open arms. You'll never judge them and they'll never judge you, but you're always there to listen.

6. It teaches you responsibility.

I'll admit that I can be a reckless driver, but I've never driven more carefully than when my little siblings are strapped in next to me. When you're the oldest, you learn responsibility because you're frequently in charge of keeping your siblings safe. But it helps you become a more responsible adult, and I'm thankful for that.

7. Your inside jokes are unparalleled.

Whether it's something stupid your mom said once, or a story about a ten-hour road trip, you and your siblings have so many jokes that you can't keep track. And they're ALL funny.

8. You get to watch them grow up.

Chances are, you remember holding your sibling in the hospital the day they were born. Now, they're an actual person who talks, thinks, loves and laughs. The best part is that you've been there through everything, and got to watch them become this amazing person.

9. You learn what unconditional love really is.

Your brother or sister could burn the house down, fail out of school, crash your car and steal your boyfriend all on the same day, and you still would do anything for them. Until I had little siblings, I didn't know that this kind of love existed. But I'm so glad that I do, and it's all thanks to being a big sister.

Find something to be thankful for this holiday season!