My little sister graduated from high school recently and what an occasion it was for my family.
As an older sister (only by three years), it was the first time I was tearing up. Yeah, I've graduated myself (no tears then), seen my friends graduate after me (no tears then either), and even been to my sister's other award ceremonies (still no tears). And this girl has been honored at a wide range of events — from academics to extracurriculars. But this graduation was different.
It was a day that I'll never forget. It was a day I was excited about since she was about to start her next chapter in life. It was a day I truly felt proud to be her older sister. I was not hesitant to scream my lungs out when her name was called to the stage to pick up her diploma. I was not hesitant to tear up in front of hundreds. Most importantly, I was not hesitant to call her my biggest joy in life.
It's such a weird feeling. Seeing her with all her special cords, medals, tassel, and graduation robe just immediately made me nostalgic. Three years ago, when I was in her shoes, she was there to support me, to yell when my name was called on stage, to take pictures of me and my friends with our diplomas, and to stand up for me whenever someone tried to say anything disrespectful behind or in front of me. It took me 18 years to realize the true power of sisterhood and its importance in my family.
My sister and I are known opposites. Three examples right here: I'm loud, absolutely adore the sport, cricket, and dislike Mexican food. She's quiet, dislikes watching cricket, and eats nothing but quesadillas (somewhat an exaggeration, but you get the point). But what connects us is our love for our culture whether that be music, dance, or cinema and our love for each other. The values we were raised with are something we really cherish and will never let go off. This doesn't necessarily mean we never fight. In fact, we used to and still fight — a lot. But these fights have brought us even closer to each other.
When I was young, I've wished to be the only child just so all my parents' love is towards me. But man, was I wrong. Without someone to share things with, without someone to fight with or even blame things on, without someone to apologize to after making a mistake, without someone to play games with, without someone my age at home with me to share my feelings with — without a sister, I would not be who I am today. And, this graduation just took me through this reminiscing ride of appreciating my sister's love and support for me always.
So, to all the sisters out there, enjoy your moments with each other. Even if you live thousands of miles away from each other, take the time to catch up and have open discussions. It's your sister. There is no limit as to what to discuss. Sisterhood is one of mankind's strongest bonds, and I'm just lucky to share this bond with my sister.
Love ya sis and can't wait for more memories with you.
