At a young age, older siblings sometimes take on an impossible task. Whether it's hurt feelings, a broken heart, bullying, trouble from parents or gossiping, we tend to try and save our little brothers and sisters from just about everything. Some of us have experienced one or many of these things ourselves and the last thing we want is to watch our "mini mes" go through the same. Unfortunately, we've taken on an almost impossible task and we can't always save them.
I remember a few years ago, one of my little sisters getting her heart broken my a boy at school. They were "boyfriend and girlfriend" but he ended things because, well let's be honest, middle school boys suck. When I found out, I was one unhappy big sister. I wanted to rip him apart and considered how long I'd be in jail for doing so (ok not really but you get my point). I mean, how could this boy not see that he was losing the most precious and kind little girl? One that would do anything for someone else and was so much fun to be around.
Another memory I have is hearing about my little brother being bullied. Excuse my language, but what the hell is wrong with kids?! My parents, and my little brother, gave me a little insight on how some boys at school made fun of him just because he wasn't interested in the same games they were. My little brother acted like everything was fine and said "so what?" But I could tell deep down that it really hurt his feelings. This put me in a whole new level of anger. This time, I truly thought I might go to jail for kicking some little kids asses, or going and having a nice talk with their parents myself!!
During these moments, I realized that I couldn't save them from everything. I couldn't save them from all pain, rumors and bullies even if I would really like to be able to. However, I did realize that the best thing I could do was just listen and be there for them. I could coach them through these terrible times and let them know that they're never alone and aren't the only ones who have/had experienced it all. I let them know that praying was the best way to move on and letting go & letting God was the best advice anyone could give them because he never puts his children through anything that they can't handle or learn from.
It's not easy to go through these things yourself but I find it harder to watch my loved ones go through the exact same thing. Being an older sibling is tough, but it's also one of the most rewarding jobs I'll ever have. So, stay strong older brothers & sisters and be role models that they'll never be disappointed in. Never forget to listen when they're struggling and ALWAYS hug them when they're down.
