- No fighting. My sister is 17 years older than me and was out of the house permanently by the time I was six. We never fought about having to share a room, about using each other’s makeup or sharing clothes. We lived such different lives that even when she did live with me, we didn’t run into each other too often, meaning we couldn’t really get on each other’s nerves.
- Going out. My sister had her license and a job before I was even born which meant when she babysat we got to go out. My sister would often take my brother and I out to dinner, bowling, to the beach, and movies. We used to beg for her to be our babysitter.
- Having a ‘cool’ sibling. While all my other friends were complaining about their brothers and sisters (and I was complaining about my brother who’s two years older) everyone loved my sister. I had the coolest sister ever and everyone loved when they got to see her.
- The advice. Everything I have gone through or will go through, my sister has already been through. Any mistakes I could make; she has made. My sister has so much wisdom and advice to give out since she’s lived so much longer than I have. She has as much experience and advice to offer as a parent, but offers it like a sister would, no judgment and no fear of punishment.
- Always having a role model. My sister was the first person I ever looked up to. I love seeing how far in life she’s gotten by herself and celebrating all of her successes with her. She’s a really awesome human being and I think that would be hard to see if we were closer in age.
- Having someone to look after you. My sister has been there for me through everything that has ever happened. I know I can call her at any time and she’ll pick up the phone and do everything in her power to help me through whatever it is.
- The kids. I became an auntie when I was 16 and again at 18 and my two little nephews are two of the best things that have happened to me. It’s so fun to watch my sister raise children of her own and for me to get to have a similar relationship with them that I have with my sister.
RelationshipsApr 10, 2017
The Best Things About Having A (Much) Older Sister
17 years is a bit of an age gap.
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