I'm a Superhero (AKA Big Sis) Part 1: Close to Age

 I recently received a request to write a post on being a big sister. First let me say thank you to the wonderful person who requested this. I love writing but sometimes am unsure what y'all want to hear. Being a big sister can be a struggle sometimes. You are basically a secondary mother to your siblings, and it can be exhausting. You help feed, teach, and rear the little ones and it can sometimes feel like you are a mother without ever having gotten married yourself.

First let me tell you, it gets better. As the little ones get older, they start to fill if for some of your old roles but no matter what you always have some form of say in their lives. Even when you clash, if you stretch out a gentle hand to make peace, they will forever be loyal and close to you. 

I often clash with the siblings closest to my age. From insults about what I wear, to derogatory comments about the boys I like, to insult about my lack of exercise, it can be infuriating to live with the siblings that are closest to your age. They see things you do and instantly want to tell you how to do it better. Hard part is realizing they do think they know what is better. So in their weird, misguided way, they think they're being helpful. You have to tell them though that you are discovering life, just as they someday will. You are stretching your wings, finding who you are as a unique human being, and need their loving support to become the best version of yourself. Try to show them endless support even when you disagree with them on things like style and what's fun or not. Trying to support them in these little things will give them the confidence to come to you with bigger things, knowing you have their best interest in mind. Eventually you will be able to bond stronger and enjoy each other's company. Me and my sister closest to my age are slowly getting there as she turns to me about clothing, hair, and boys. It is a wonderful feeling to find. 

Older siblings.... sometimes you love them... sometimes you just find them interesting... and sometimes you just wish they'd find a nice tall cliff.... and jump. If you're like me, you are the momma bear of the siblings but have that one inconvenient sibling that says, "I'm older than you! Therefore, oh so wise and mighty! Obey my command." And you think... yeah right. He's moved out now, but I remember living with him on a daily basis was a constant battle. I was the mother figure and the one often put in charge, but his older brother superiority often caused us endless arguments and quite a bit of tears. Now I am still not perfect at this but often times when you are the one your siblings look up to, admire, or at least want to be around, that older sibling starts to feel like the black sheep of the family. He or she was the first born and has quickly been "replaced" with sibling after sibling. They may not have as much time anymore with the parents and when the trust and affection of their siblings doesn't go to them, they feel forgotten. Give them a little of their power back. If you can hand small decisions to them. You've been put in charge but ask them their thoughts on what you should watch, eat, or what punishment a naughty child deserves. They'll feel empowered and like they've earned themselves back a little. As always some humor to finish up!

Not very nice... but relatable.

I'm not this way... but I've seen it happen. 

Ours is named Ben. LOL

Only had this happen once... then they realized he didn't even compare to me.

I AM this sister. You mess with my siblings; you mess with me. I can insult them and beat them up but you touch them... yeah... no. 

HAPPENS ALL THE TIME!

In part 2, I will give you some tips to handle the little ones, so full of naughtiness and fun. Thanks for reading! If you have any ideas or thoughts, please leave them in the comments below. Tell us of a struggle you've overcome with one of your siblings. I love to hear from you!