For nine years I was the only child and life was great. I was spoiled by my family, had no responsibilities and everything was easy going without a care in the world. However, all that changed when I went to my Memaw's for spring break back in April of 2008. My Memaw sat me down and told me that my mom was having a baby. At first, I was shocked and a little upset because I never thought my mom would have another baby. Since I was young, I was selfish over the idea that I wasn't going to be the center of attention anymore and that this baby was going to replace me with everyone.
Months went by and I found out that my new found sibling was going to be a boy. I was about to have a little baby brother and honestly that was exciting news to me. I eventually got over the idea that I was going to have to share my one-on-one time but I was gaining a sibling, someone who I could protect, play with, make him be my own personal baby doll.
January 20th was one of the happiest days of my life.That was the day I officially became a big sister! My heart was overwhelmed with pure joy and happiness because my baby brother was the most precious thing I ever laid eyes on.
I was like a mini mom. I would try to teach him things and then reprimand him when he wasn't behaving or listening. I was always wanting to hold him and cuddle him. When he became a toddler we would play outside in the dirt together, play games and watch movies. I spoiled him more than anyone else did.
Three years after my brother was born, a few days after my twelfth birthday, my mom and my stepdad sat me down to tell me that I was going to have another sibling. I'm not going to lie and say I was overcome with joy, rather I ran straight to my room and cried.
One sibling was enough, but two? I felt like my life was complete and now another baby was on the way. It didn't take me long to get over how upset I was once I found out I was having a baby sister.
I became so excited because I was going to have a mini me. Even though we would be thirteen years apart, I couldn't wait for all the shopping trips, playing dress up, makeup and slumber parties we would have. On February 2, my baby brother's life turned upside down because he was no longer the baby, so you can say there was a bit of jealousy going on.
Nine years later and it comes to no shock that I have learned a lot about what it truly means to be a big sister, someone my siblings can look up to. I have learned a great deal of responsibility and putting my needs aside to make sure my brother or sister have what they need. I have learned unconditional love and how no matter what I will always support my siblings and have their backs.
My heart aches for those who are the only child because without my siblings my life would be far more boring. Though at times my siblings and I have had our fair share of arguments and apologies, I wouldn't trade the late night movie sessions, the museum trips, car rides and all the laughter and memories in between to be an only child. My siblings have helped shape who I am. I hope that I have set a good enough path for them to follow and that they know I will be by their side through thick and thin.
