I'm lucky enough to have a sibling. I've always felt bad for only children, because I really think they have missed out on the joys and frustrations of being a sibling. This is the reason I want to have at least two children when I get around to that phase of my life.
Even though I love being a big sister, I didn't know then that when my parents decided to bring another child into the world, they were also placing a huge responsibility on me. It was just a matter of me stepping up to the plate.
What am I talking about?
When I was younger, I set the examples. My mother would always tell me, "You should act/do better. Your sister is watching you." I also was responsible for the sibling torment. Did you know that's required of all older sisters? It is. It's in the contract.
As I got older, I looked out for her. We were latch-key kids, so I was responsible for her. When I was a senior in high school, she was a freshman. It's not that she couldn't hold her own, but I still kept out a watchful eye.
I also taught her how to fight, how badly words can cut, and what a slap across the face can feel like.
Now, I am my sister's keeper. I worry about her. I want to make sure she's happy. That whatever man she chooses to be in her life deserves to be there. It's my job. It's in the contract too.
Through it all though, I was and still am the big sister. A blessing and curse. My little sister is an amazing kid (okay, adult). Someday I can't wait to tell my kids stories about their aunt and me. And about how my kids should learn to get along because someday they might actually like each other (that was another one of my mom's favorite lines).
Siblings or more specifically my sister. Today, that's what I'm grateful for.
