Big and Little relationships are often seen as an important deal in collegiate sororities. The week leading up to reveal you have this constant stream of anticipation starting when she first texts you. Honestly, the anticipation is as great if not more than waiting for a guy to text or call you. Sometimes, your Big leaves you clues to help you figure out who she is (mine did not, nor did I for my little). The gifts are just an added bonus, but the kindness demonstrated throughout the week and afterwards throughout your time in the sorority is what really stands out.
Despite how great your Big is, I think it is also important to note that your Little is truly one of a kind. As much as my Big has influenced my life, my Little has made my life 10 times better. There is not a day that goes by where I do not think of her or what she has added to my life. The moment anything exciting happens, I text two people: my Big and of course, my Little.
1. She’s always down for an adventure.
It doesn't matter if the adventure is Disney, St. Augustine, or midnight donut runs, my Little is always ready for a trip. Not only is she the perfect travel companion, she also encourages me to be more adventurous and step out of my comfort zone. My Little has a greater sense of travel than I do, but she pushes me to take more risks. It doesn't matter if the night will be a sign night full of tequilas shots or an all-night study session. She is willing to go along with it.
2. Chances are she is your other half.
Not only did you have to want your Little and be willing to show her the ropes and dedicate your time, she selected you as the woman she wanted as a mentor and friend. That means there had to be some strong bond prior to formally becoming Big and Little. The relationship you have with your little is completely judge-less. I know I can tell my Little anything, even when what I have to say may be ridiculous. She knows she can trust me with her life - something that goes both ways.
3. She reminds you that you don’t have to have your life all together.
If I had a dollar for every time I lost it in front of my Little or she had a meltdown in front of me, I would be a very wealthy college student. Yes, Bigs take on a "maternal" role with their Little, but in no way are we their moms. We are their peers who always watch out for them, but that is what friendship is. Having a Little reminds you that you are still in college and no one expects your life to be perfect or all together for that matter. However, they are the perfect person to experience the roller coaster of life with.
4. She is always teaching or introducing us to new things.
It doesn't matter if they are sharing their love of science, going green, or makeup with you, you are always learning something that is important to them. By default, that makes the subject important to you. One of the girls in my sorority has learned about saving turtles thanks to her Little, while another girl has learned all about the Kylie Lip Kit. I know that I have introduced countless odd topics to my Big, and although she might not be completely into it, she takes a vested interest in the topic because she knows how passionate I am about the subject I am. That makes all the difference. My Little and I have very different taste in music, but going to a concert to see her favorite artist was one of the greatest experiences because of the joy it brought her.
5. She pushes you to be the greatest version of yourself.
Not only do Bigs provide a support system, but so do our Littles. If I ever come to face with self-doubt, my little always helps me believe in myself, proving that I am capable of so much more than I thought possible. Their never ending stream of knowledge of you comes in handy when they kick your a** and encourage you to stop feeling sorry for yourself and get back to work.
6. She reminds you it is okay to be happy, even if times are tough.
Sometimes life can be a real b****, but your Little is a great reminder that despite challenging times, you still have to smile and be kind to those around you. One girl in my sorority is the perfect example. She has had countless obstacles thrown her way, but she always makes time to see her Big, whether that is grabbing ice cream or seeing a movie with her.
7. Sometimes she can be the mentor.
As much as I try to mentor my Little and support her in all her endeavors, she does the same for me. Whenever I am feeling lost about something, I know I can turn to her for her honest opinion. It doesn't matter how old your Little is, she can be older (mine is) or she can be younger but wise beyond her years. They can all offer you some insight. All I know is I am so grateful to have my little in my life.
Little, you are one of the most important people in my life simply because you are you. You came into my life at the perfect time and brought something unique I did not know was missing. I am so grateful to have you has my Little. Your accomplishments are my accomplishments and not a day goes by when I'm not thankful for all you have brought into my world.