Being an older sibling can sometimes be a much larger job than anticipated. Whether its babysitting at the last minute, trying not to parent, or trying to reconcile after a large fight, it can be difficult at time. One thing can be said though: being an older sibling definitely prepared me for adulthood.
They taught me how to love
I really didn't know how much someone could love you or look up to you until the moment I held that little baby 13 years ago. Ever since then I have done whatever I can to make him happy; just to see that smile is worth more than anything in the world. Getting a hug from my younger sibling is the thing I look forward to most when I come home, or making him laugh that really hearty belly laugh.
They taught me patience
Anyone who has a sibling can agree, you have to be patient! There is nothing like trying to teach them a skill and for one reason or another they just aren't grasping it, and you feel like smashing your head against a wall. Eventually, the skill becomes clear and suddenly your sibling grasps it and the heavens shine from above. Patience paid off! They also taught me how to be patient with people I may not always work well with. My sibling and I don't always get along, but in order to keep our household running we have to work together. They taught me how to work productively with others even if I don't like them in that moment.
They taught me to be responsible
There is nothing to teach a child responsibility like throwing them the well being of another child. You had to learn how to take care of your younger sibling for when your parents were not around, when they needed guidance, and most of all to make the right choices. Like it or no,t our siblings see every choice we make, including the consequences of the bad ones. I had to make choices that I would be proud for my sibling to see--to be a role model because they were always watching.
They taught me life skills
Believe it or not, those countless hours of babysitting (not by choice) paid off. I learned how to cook for the pickiest eater, how to change a diaper, how to play certain sports, and first-aid on a couple of occasions. My sibling has given me a well-rounded education on how to treat people, how to turn the other cheek when things get a little too heated (or how to hide the urge to punch someone) and how to support those I care about.
There are so many things I could say about my sibling, but I am beyond grateful that I have a lifelong best friend, side kick and antagonist. They have prepared me to be the best version of myself that I can be, and there are many lessons I will learn in the future.
