"Brothers and sisters are as close as hands and feet." -Vietnamese Proverb

Growing up, there was never a week that we got along in its entirety. Most of the time we despised each other and vowed that we would never be close like so many other siblings claim to be. As we all grew up and inevitably grew fond of each other, I came to realize I could not live without my brothers. There are many other things I have recently realized that you all taught me and, without those lessons or you guys, I would not be the person I am today. Even though you all make me so aggravated, I would not trade any one of you for the world.

1. You Taught Me How To Be Tough

No matter the situation, whether it was emotional or physical, you taught me to be tough. No one likes a whiner was a phrase that was said to me by each one of you at least once in my life.

2. Never Forget Your Worth

Whether it was friends, boys or life that got me down, you knew what to say. Numerous times you reminded me that if friends or boys didn't care, then I shouldn't either. They were a waste of time and, when it comes down to it, you don't really have much time to waste.

3. Don't Take Life Too Seriously

So many times when I was upset about a grade or I did something I wasn't supposed to, you told me not to take it too seriously. There would be other grades and I could always fix whatever I did wrong. When I was down in the dumps with the normal "teenage blues", I could always count on you to make me laugh and then remind me that I was just being a moody teenager. You taught me that whatever was getting me down wouldn't matter so much in a few days.

4. You'll Always Have Someone On Your Side

Growing up, we didn't always see eye to eye-- but it didn't take me long to learn that whatever "tiff" we were in didn't matter when I needed someone in my corner. It didn't matter whether I was fighting with our parents or fighting with my friends; you were always right there backing me up.

5. Separation Anxiety Is NOT Just For Babies

It didn't matter if I just saw you yesterday or if it has been a month, I always miss you! As much as you don't want to admit it, I know you miss me too. I hate to break it to you, but your constant picking is telltale!

6. Step Does NOT Differentiate

I consider this the biggest lesson I have learned from all of you. We've all loved each other, had our heart to hearts and we definitely have all made fun of each other like we are biological siblings. Even though we don't all have the same parents, that doesn't mean we don't love each other.