Little brothers and sisters… We aren’t all lucky (and cursed) enough to have them. Some of you are the younger sibling. Some of you have the privilege of living the lavish life of an only child (I can't even imagine how that must be…) I know that as an older sister I never have to worry about being lonely, seeing as how I was blessed with five lovely siblings. While we share an endless list of amazing memories with each other, my siblings are also some of the most annoying people I’ve ever encountered. I could write pages upon pages filled with all the annoying experiences I’ve shared with my dear younger siblings. For now, I just want to focus on the positive and give a quick shout out of appreciation not only to my younger siblings, but to all the younger siblings of the world.
Thank you for driving me absolutely insane. I have never experienced a relationship more trying of my patience than the one I share with you. You have each taught me how to dig deep down to find that last strand of tolerance. I can confidently say that I now have the ability to handle almost any difficult person life may throw at me. Working through the tasks that come with being an older sister has played a huge role in the development of my personality, without a doubt. With that being said, I applaud you guys big time for helping to shape the person I am today.
Thank you for teaching me the importance of being a role model. It has taken me a long time to realize that my behaviors impact how you think a “big kid” or adult should act. I always try to keep in the back of my mind just how much of an impact my decisions can have on what you think of me. No matter how frustrating it may be, I have come to accept that you look up to me, and in some cases want to be like me. I don’t say that to brag. I say that because after denying it for years, I can finally acknowledge the fact that that’s just the way things are and that’s how they’re going to always be. Thank you for always watching me and reminding me that the decisions that I make influence more than just myself.
Thank you for teaching me that I will always be a kid in some way, shape or form. Whether it’s you expecting me to sit at the kid table during holidays, or you trying to rope me into some elaborate scheme to persuade the parents into doing something, I never truly feel like a “grown-up” when I’m around you. I’m almost always down to play games or build Legos or give each other makeovers. Thanks for making sure I don’t forget how to be a kid and for reminding me that being young and silly is sometimes better than being responsible and mature.
Thank you for being some of the best friends I’ll ever have. No matter what, I know you will always be there for me. Whether I’m just looking for some company or need a buddy to talk to, I know that there’s always someone there for me. Siblings are like built-in friends, and I thank you for spending time with me and letting me share such great memories with you.
Lastly, thank you for being you. I know I complain about how annoying you can be and sometimes I might not show it, but in fact I do love each and every one of you with all of my heart. There’s no one else I’d rather have around to spontaneously tickle or torment or cuddle. Here’s to a future full of funny, annoying, frustrating and loving memories. I can only hope to be as great of a sibling for you as you are for me. I love you guys.
