Dear older siblings,
You two became parents early, my brother when he was eight and my sister when she was five. Of course, I don’t mean that in a literal sense. Growing up, our parents worked a lot, and while our mom took on the role of being a housewife, for a lot of the time, the three of us were left home alone. You two parented me and taught me everything I know. Your opinions became my opinions; your words became my words. I wanted to be just like you.
I owe every part of who I’ve become to you both. I’ll forever feel for the people who won’t know how truly exciting it is to have an older sibling: someone to guide you, lead you, inspire you, correct you when you’re wrong and support you when you’re wrong. I’m truly grateful for everything you’ve imparted to my life. Regardless of sounding so cliche, I want to begin with a thank you.
I hope you’ve had as much fun growing up with me as I’ve had with you. From all three of us playing house together, to the shenanigans we got up to in the neighborhood, you two have remained a sounding board in my life. For a huge part of my life, I didn’t realize how great I had it with you two. It wasn’t until you finally left for college that I realized how much of your presence I would miss. I learned firsthand what so many people rely on older siblings for: to be a first playmate, a role model and the one who paves the path forward. The paths siblings pave for you suddenly become your guide in life. It’s no wonder that studies show kids with supportive older siblings tend to show more sympathy and compassion towards others.
Older siblings, particularly those with significant age gaps, hold profound influences over their younger siblings’ lives. They often play a dual role where they are both their siblings’ siblings and their parents. It looks like helping with the younger sibling’s homework while their parents aren’t home or are just busy. It looks like relenting and allowing them to hang out with you and your friends.
As someone who’s both a younger and an older sibling, I’ve been on both ends of these relationships. I’ve had to play the role of an independent big sister who’ll advise you and help you out when you need it, and I’ve played the role of the dependent little sister who doesn’t know how to do anything and will forever be a huge pain in the butt to my siblings.
To all the older siblings out there, thank you for your devotion and for your inspiration in our lives. For your outward love and affection. Thank you to my older sister, who’s provided me with countless articles of clothing that you’re probably looking for but will stay in my closet forever. Thank you to my older brother, who taught me how to ride my bike and, later on, taught me how to drive. Thank you to both of you for creating the most satisfying and gratifying years of my childhood. I only hope that I can create a similar childhood for our little brother while you guys are out doing your things in the world. A big thank you for all the ways you’ve changed me. Thank you, not just for changing me, but for showing me exactly who I wanted to be.
Love,
Your little sister <3