Myself, like many other college students do not have much direction in their life. Some go through the motions hoping that one day something will click and they will find a purpose to all of it. Similarly, I have not had that spark of inspiration yet. My heart has not dragged me to one career path or even to feel passionate about a specific major. However there is one piece of my life that I have always been sure about. Without a doubt, I know I was put on this earth for one major reason: to be a Big Sister.
No matter what challenges or hardships come my way, I know my little sister will always be a constant fixture in my life. There are a few things (for better or for worse) that come with being a big sister.
1. Being Super Protective. If its one thing I would get aggressive about, its my little sister. Don't talk about her the wrong way, don't look at her the wrong way and definitely do not put your hands on her the wrong way. Its always hard when she doesn't want her big sister to intervene, some problems are her battle to fight, but she will always know her big sister will be right there for back up.
2. Being The Best Version Of You, For Her. Being a role model is the best job I never asked for. There is nothing like putting in your all and knowing if you fail, at least she will learn from your mistakes. I never thought being a mediocre athlete would pave the way for her to be a stellar one. Doing well in school isn't an option, it's necessary to ensure she has standards to meet. And being a genuine, kind and well-rounded person is the best thing for a little sister to look up to. Being the best version of myself is good for me, but even better for her.
3. Fighting is Fun. Living with someone for almost fifteen years, there are bound to be fights. Hair pulling and kicking is old school, now it gets personal like, "You don't even match" or "Shave your uni brow". And my favorite, "You're probably adopted". Whether its over clothes, getting the front seat in the car or just being on the same cycle at the same time, fights will happen, but making up and celebrating with a sister date is worth it.
4. Always Cheer Her On. As a big sister, it is your job to support her in all her aspirations. Sporting events, clubs, school and everything in between. She needs your guidance and encouragement. Its one thing to have your parents as cheerleaders but when your sister is too, that's when you know you're onto something good. When she achieves, you achieve.
5. Having a Permanent Best Friend. No matter what hurdles life brings, I will always come home to my best friend. Nothing in the world will change the love we share. A best friend to drag along on errands, to take road trips with, to go out to eat and use those gift cards from Christmas with. A best friend to snuggle with, to borrow clothes with and do make up tutorials on. A best friend to come with you to every family event, to play hooky from school with and get the perfect camera angle of you. A best friend to cry to, to grow with and to get old with. When you have your sister, you have a forever friend.
6. In Low Tide or High Tide, I'll Be By Your Side. In the good or bad, I promise to be there for you. I will always be on your side no matter what side that is. When the going gets tough, never worry your big sister will get you through.
7. You Will Never Be Stupid... Alone. I pledge to never let you make bad decisions, unless I'm there to supervise. At least if mom catches us, we'll be grounded together.
8. Always Be Her Defense Attorney. Sorry Mom and Dad, I know nothing. That unwritten rule of being a big sister; if the parents don't need to know, they will not know. And if she does get caught, it was an accident, she didn't mean to, she didn't know or I told her it was okay. Little sisters, you'll always win the case or get the lowest penalty as long as we're around.
9. She Gains Many Older Siblings From You. Since we cannot always be there for our little sister, it is important to have a round table of people you trust to take care of her the way you would. Selectively, you pick those friends over the years that come to be an older sister to your little sister. They promise to look after her, hang out with her, and love her like their own. They crash sister dates, and even make some of their own without you. Don't worry little sis, you think I would ever leave you alone?
10. Learning To Be Selfless. If its one thing I've learned since day one of being a big sister its to be selfless in all aspects. Gaining a little sibling changes your world forever. Going from being the only light of your parents' life, to now sharing that spotlight is not easy, but soon enough you come to realize she is the light of your life too. You learn to share, gain responsibility and to find happiness in making others happy even if things didn't go your way. You also get sucked into wanting to give her everything and anything (including your bigger room). You learn that loving your younger sibling comes easy when you love them more than yourself.
11. Everything You Do, You Do For Her. It may sound dramatic, but it is true. Every part of my life revolves around being the best big sister I can be. I get involved so she will have foot holes if she chooses to step there as well. I surround myself with good people so she knows to do the same. I respect myself so she will never question her own worth. I go to college, so even if she chooses a different path, at least I can take care of her. When you're a dedicated big sister, you already have a purpose, no matter how confusing your future seems. Everything you do, you do for your little sister.
12. When You Count Your Blessings, You Count Her Twice. There are many things to be thankful for in life; a home, food on the table, education, new clothes. But there is nothing like being grateful for your little sister. She brings everlasting happiness and a lifetime of moments to share. I thank God everyday that my parents gave me someone to conquer life with. When I'm not sure of myself, I know I have her. People spend lifetimes searching for a soulmate to share life with, thankfully mine lives in the next room. When I count my blessings, I count her twice.
