Growing up an only child, I've been defined by the stereotype it brings. I've been called spoiled, a diva, and selfish. I've been told I have "Only Child Syndrome". Which, I might fall into those categories sometimes, but it doesn't define who I am. For all the name-callers, here me out.

My mom had me at a very young age so the chances of her having another kid when I was growing up was slim. She always told me that if she were going to have another child, it would have been soon after me so my sibling and I could be close in age. Once I got to a certain age, I gave up on the dream of having a sibling. My mom's side of the family is very small; my grandparents only had two girls. That means I only have one aunt. She decided a long time ago that she wasn't going to have any children. No cousins for me, ever. So, on my mom's side of the family, I am the only granddaughter, the only niece, and the only child. It's JUST me. All the Christmas presents, Easter cards, graduation gifts, all for me and me only.

It's understandable how I could be called spoiled. I do get the majority of what I want, but that's because it's only me. You look up 'Girly-Girl' in the dictionary and my picture will pop up. There's nothing wrong with enjoying the finer things in life. I love keeping my hair and nails done. That new hand bag that just came out, best believe I'm on a mission to get it! So if that means I'm spoiled, then sure. I'm spoiled and proud because I work hard for what I do have. I have a job and I get good grades. Basically, I handle my business and my responsibilities as a young lady so everything that comes to me, I feel is earned.

The characteristics of "Only Child Syndrome" include selfishness, an inability to share and difficulty making friends. I do not fit this stereotype at all. Being an only child, I hated being alone, but I'm content with it. I have tons of friends because I don't want to be alone. Being alone isn't my first option. Sharing is caring. I don't mind sharing with others--as long as it's not pizza then I'm cool with it. And, being selfish is only a sometimes thing. I'm constantly putting other people and their happiness before myself and that's a problem. Sometimes you have to be selfish, if not, people will walk all over you.

A positive outcome of being an only child is independence. I will never have to depend on anyone, nor do I ever want to. I am able to live on my own and still manage to survive without my parents. And I thank my mom for that. I love being an only child. I walk to the beat of my own drum. I have no problem with myself because all I've ever had is myself.