A Sister Is More Than Family

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Family relationships can be complex, and our home is the only place in the world where we cannot be anyone else but us.

I have learned from my personal experience that unfortunately, we are often the least kind with our closest ones. Yet, the bond between siblings is special, powerful, and strong, even in tough times.

If you have a sister, you know that despite all your differences, she is the first person you would turn to in good or bad.

Here are 9 reasons why your sister is the greatest gift your parents have you:

1. Sisters help build your character.

You surely remember many of the character-building from your childhood. Sisters learn from each other, and if your sister is older than you, we believe she has been your role model until late in life.

2. You can vent to her.

Your sister is the first person you can unload on whenever you feel stressed, and she will forgive you and love you no matter what.

3. She was happy to drive you around before you got your license.

Those were great days, weren’t day? Your schoolmates thought you were cooler than them as you were riding with seniors, and the teachers knew her sister and loved her, so they now loved you as well.

4. She helped you learn all the grown-up stuff.

An older sister will help you through all the bizarre and tedious grown-up stuff. She will keep you covered.

5. She’s great to copy.

One piece of advice that will keep you safe in life: Copy your sister and you will do fine, in high school, at work, with your first boyfriend.

6. She’s your guru.

A bigger sister has tried it all already, so she can be your personal advisor, and lead you in life.

7. She always has your back.

Your sister offers unconditional support, and she is someone you can trust, someone who will always have your back.

8. They can have real conversations with you.

Your sister will be there for you whenever you need a real conversation, and she will be a good listener, offering the best advice to help you.

9. She taught your parents a lot.

A bigger sister is the one that will teach your parents valuable lessons, so they will be much more understanding when you have grown up to repeat her mistakes.

If you and your sister aren’t on good terms, it is probably high time to try and reconcile. Remember, good fences make good neighbors.

Joseph R. Sanok, MA, a professional family counselor and author of five books, advises:

 “The key to establishing good relationships as adults—especially with siblings you may have had a rocky relationship with in the past—is to make good, clear boundaries.”

You should know that you need and ask for your relationship, tell your sister your non-negotiable rules, and identify your personal triggers. When you have established what will make both of you feel safe and happy, you are off to an excellent start.

Soon, you will realize you missed her so much!