No one really asks for siblings it just happens. And, sometimes you end up being the eldest—like me. However, I am grateful to have siblings for the opportunities I have had thanks to them. Being the oldest isn't easy because it comes with a lot of responsibility.
I remember the day after my mother gave birth to my first sister. I was only four years old and I had no clue what was happening. My aunt and uncles took me to the hospital where they told me I would finally see my mom. It was the longest I'd been away from my mom, and I was excited and a little nervous to see her again. Looking back at that day now, it's interesting to know how that day determined my future.
From the moment I became the oldest child, I had gained unknown responsibilities. I had to take care of my siblings, be a good role model and overall stop being dependent on my parents.
A year passed, and I was proud to have another sister. At this time, I was only five years old and I did not really understand what having siblings meant. I knew I fought with them a lot, as all siblings do.
Over the years, I understood my responsibilities more and more. Although I did not have a great adventure to help me figure out my responsibilities like Tommy did in "The Rugrats Movie," I learned eventually.
When I was 10 or 11 years old, I heard my parents verbally fighting again. I was old enough to understand what they were saying, but I tired to ignore them. Eventually, the verbal fighting turned physical and I became worried for my siblings. I ran to their room and told them everything would be okay as I wiped their tears away. On that unforgettable night I vowed to always protect my siblings and become the parent they needed.
I've kept my secret vow to them even to this day. I grew into a stronger person because of them and I am fortunate to have them in my life.
I learned to put them before myself, even if they hated my guts sometimes. I learned how to be a good parent and one heck of a role model because I knew my parents were not capable of doing that. I was always there for them when they needed a hug or a shoulder to cry on, and I am still here whenever they need to talk. I can see that my sisters trust me more than our mother about the little things. Maybe it's because I am their sister, but it could also be because they see me as a parent figure. Maybe it's a combination of both.
I think the most important lesson I learned was how to be independent. My parents gave me the incentive to learn this at a young age. Sometimes it was difficult not being able to depend on my parents, but I am thankful that I learned to become independent. I've never been scared to take on the world because I know I can take care of myself and succeed. I am thankful for my siblings. I am thankful that they let me show them how strong I've become for them. I am thankful for them because they helped me find who I am.
