As I embark on my last few days of being 20, I reflect on the past few years and how being the youngest of my friends and family has taken a toll on me.
So, with all of my thoughts, I decided to make some pros and cons.
Pro: The older sibling(s) always get blamed for everything
This is true and had been proven right again and again in my childhood slap fights with my sister. (Sorry sissy love you)
Con: Being known as so-and-so's little sister/brother
Entering high school I was already known, which isn't a bad thing considering how amazing my sister is, but it would have been nice to start out fresh and as a nobody
Pro: You will always feel protected from your sibling(s)
While their suffocating love and constant texts can be annoying, they do it because they care and no one is going to hurt their little baby.
Con: The over use of the phrase "I remember when you were THIS big..."
Yes relatives, I have grown since the last time you saw me. Thats what happens when you haven't seen someone in 5-10 years.
Pro: The youngest can order off the kids menu longer
Long live the grilled cheese and chicken tenders!
Con: No matter how old you are, you are forever known as "the baby"
This is a label I will never escape.
While I love being the youngest in my family, sometimes it can be worse with my friends. Especially because I am almost 21. Keyword: Almost.
Pro: You know your friends will be safe with you as a DD
While you may miss out on the fun nights out, at least you know they will have a safe ride home thanks to you
Pro/Con: All your friends turn 21 before you. All of them.
Now this one is a double whammy. Yes, it sucks that all of them turn 21 before you and, while they're out partying, you're stuck at home watching netflix eating a box of twinkies.
However, you get the opportunity to watch them suffer from hangovers and knowing when enough is enough. It's kind of like a living breathing AD for drinking and what the effects of excessive alcohol can do.
Plus you might have some super sweet photo blackmail from snapchats you get from your drunk BFFs to use against them in times of need. I have a whole album saved on my phone.
Pro: When you turn 21, you will be able to have all your besties right there with you
This past year of being 20 has taught me patience and kindness. I learned how to take care of my drunk friends. I learned the value of being responsible but most importantly, I learned that just because I am missing out now, doesn't mean that fun times don't await me.
Just a few days ago I got a text from my BFF Sam saying "We are all excited for the baby to turn 21".
Me too friend, me too.
