Dear younger siblings,
There are so many things I want to say, but let’s be honest, our communication usually doesn’t get too deep. Our moments together mostly consist of belting out songs at the top of our lungs and wrestling each other. So, listen up (or read on), because I’m about to bear my heart, more or less.
First of all, I can’t believe how much you have grown. One of you is already taller than me, and the other is well on his way to surpassing my whooping five feet and one inch. Definitely not fair. My goodness, I remember the day each of you was born one—when I was five and the other when I was eight. It seems like it was just yesterday, and yet today, you stand before me as outstanding young men. Seriously, you have to stop growing. It’s making me feel old, and I don’t appreciate it.
Since finding out I was going to be a big sister—well after I got over my tantrums and jealousy over not being an only child anymore—I have tried my best to be a good example. I want you guys to be able to look up to me as a role model because I don’t trust the ones society pushes on kids like you. I am far from perfect myself, but I have always tried my hardest to be the best person I can possibly be. I hope that I have taught you to be honest, to be brave, to work hard, to have faith, to be responsible, and to always be yourself. Being the oldest comes with so much responsibility and decision making. You may not realize it, but a lot of what I have done, I have done for you—for your growth and well-being. I would gladly do it all over again.
I also want to say I’m sorry because, despite my efforts, I have not been the perfect sister. Sometimes I lose my temper and say things I don’t mean, sometimes I neglect spending time with you in favor of other things, sometimes I have refused to listen to what you have to say, and other times I have acted for my best interest instead of yours. I apologize. I’m human, and I mess up a lot. However, the two of you mean the world to me and I will work on being the very best sister I can possibly be. You deserve nothing less.
I’m sorry if at times I’m nagging and annoying, but I care about you and need to make sure you are okay. It’s my job. I worry a lot about you. Growing up in this world, in this society is not easy feat. There is so much pressure and so much that can go wrong. I worry about your futures and the people you grow up to be. I truly want what is best for you, and I will play my part in getting you there and render my worries unnecessary.
Please remember I will always be there, rain or shine.
Love,
Nashali
