My older sister, Trisha, was born with a mental disability. She can’t talk, read, or write and needs 24/7 supervision. Trisha and I have never been able to do most of the activities that sisters do together. I have always wished that she could talk to me and teach me things that big sisters are "suppose" to teach their little sisters. However, I realized that she has taught me things that you do not necessarily need to teach with words. Even though I’ve never had a conversation with my big sis, I have learned some of the most valuable lessons from her.
Growing up with Trisha has taught me compassion and understanding. Throughout my life I have watched people stare and sometimes even laugh at her. This is something that has always bothered me, especially since she can't defend herself. Early in my life, I made it a point to look past people's differences and to not use them against someone. Thanks to Trisha, I have learned to embrace the different features in others and I know that we wouldn't be who we are without them.
Trisha has taught me to never take things for granted. She will never get to go to college, get married, have kids, or even do something as simple as saying "I love you" to her family. I often don't appreciate some of those things as much as I should. When I think of Trisha, I realize how grateful I really am for all of the opportunities that I am given. I always try my best to value the little things in life because I am sure that if Trisha was given the choice, she would love to do the same.
Living with my sister has also taught me not to focus on the "what ifs." I always wondered what it would be like to talk to her, to go shopping with her, or what kind of advice she would give to me when I'm upset. I quickly learned that wondering what she would be like or wishing that things could be different wasn't going to change anything. Instead, I am thankful for what I do have; a pretty awesome big sister who always makes me laugh and gives the best hugs. In any situation, I learned that it is important to enjoy the things that I do have and not worry about the things that I don't.
I am so thankful that I have my sister in my life. Trisha has taught me so much and has helped me become a better person without ever speaking a word to me. I will be able to continue to use the lessons she has taught me throughout the rest of my life. She continues to inspire me everyday and I wouldn't change her for the world.
