Being an only child until I was 15 years old, I didn't really understand what growing up with siblings was like. I have always been intrigued by the relationship that siblings have and especially the connection they share. While it has been proven that twins don't have ESP with each other, it would be crazy to say that twins do not share a bond that is different than anything else in the world.
I wanted to know what being a twin is actually like and luckily, I have a great friend, Ruth, that has a fraternal twin sister. She graciously let me pester her with questions about growing up, their identities and what their future holds as they move into adult life.
J: Did you and your twin always get along, or was it just like any sibling relationship?
R: We fought just like any sisters would, but now that we are older we are closer. Middle school was the worst because she was considered 'popular' and I was not. Her friends liked to pick on me and she always had to choose whether to defend me or just let it be.
J: Was it difficult growing up with someone that looked just like you or was it fun?
R: It was extremely difficult, but I think being girls made it even more challenging. She has always been thinner, taller and the 'beautiful' stereotype. I, on the other hand, was shorter, curvier and matured more quickly in the physical sense. There was a lot of comparison between us and it hurt my self-esteem when I was considered the less pretty twin.
J: Did you ever wonder if someone that 'liked' you would 'like' your sister too?
R: It's funny that you mention that. There were a few times one guy would date both of us, me first and then her. In high school, we actually dated a set of twins. The problem was that the guy we were each dating got hung up on the other one.. That was complicated.
J: Was it difficult developing your own sense of identity having a twin?
R: Even though we look similar, our personalities have always been opposite ends of the spectrum. It was challenging to accept myself though when she seemed to be more liked by people. I wanted to be like her, but I wasn't at all. As I've grown up, I've realized that we are both our own people and that is okay.
J: I have to ask, do you believe that twins share an ESP with each other?
R: I don't, at least we don't. I don't know when she is hurting, but at the same time, I can usually always make her feel better when no one else can and vice versa.
J: What's something that readers would be surprised to know about being a twin?
R: Regardless of how much she gets on my nerves sometimes, she is the person I always want to see when I've had an awful day or need advice. I know she knows me better than I know myself and that's such a cool thing to have in this world.
J: Would you trade your sister for a puppy/pet?
R: Absolutely. *laughs*
All relationships are different of course, but I hope this gave you a little bit of insight into the minds of twins. Family is so important in this world and having someone that knows you so well is a treasure. Tell your sibling(s) you love them even if they stole your favorite shirt.