Growing up, I was the youngest of three older brothers, all of which were 10+ years older than me. I never really had sibling rivalry or arguments because my brothers cherished their little baby sister and were too old and mature to have those classic sibling feuds. A lot of questions I get when asked about being the youngest and the only girl include, "Were you always lonely?" or "Did you ever want a sister?" and the answer is always, no. I had cousins close in age growing up that were in my life as sisters, friends, diaries, and partners in crime. Cousins can be just as supportive and influential in your life as siblings and here are a few reasons why.

1. They're always there without being all up in your space

You can't really get away from your siblings. With cousins, you have someone close enough to you that you can go to for whatever, whenever but they aren't all up in your space 24/7 (except closets, they're all up in there).

2. You can use them as excuses with your parents

Personally, when my cousins or myself are trying to go out or do something that our parents would be against, we are each other's cover ups. Your parents typically know where your siblings are, but your cousins aren't their kids so aren't usually keeping tabs.

3. Group chats are POPPIN'!

I don't know about you, but my group chat with my cousins is always fire. There isn't a day we go without having something to talk about or jokes to make. From family insiders to support during exams and job interviews. And someone is always awake.

4. Predetermined bridesmaids

You never really know what will happen as life goes on and friendships change. Luckily for me, I have bridesmaids that don't really have a choice but to deal with me when I reign the title of "Bridezilla".

5. Sisters from another mister

Of course, this relationship of sisterhood can be attained from best friends, but with cousins, they know the depths and explicit details about family, and personal life issues and experiences. My cousins don't need an explanation when I come to them for help because they already have the background experience and knowledge they need to listen and give advice.

6. Eternal confidants

With my brothers, I talk to them about school and life but not the dirty little secrets and personal details like I do with my cousins. There isn't a major age gap or anyone that is "in charge" and uses that against you with the relationship that comes with my cousins, everyone confides in each other and the respect is equal.

All in all, my cousins have been the biggest support system throughout my entire life. I can confide in them for anything and will be forever grateful to have such beautiful, intelligent, inspiring women in my life. Cousins are usually the first friends we have as children and I am blessed to have been given God's gift of the most amazing and influential friends for life. I know y'all are reading this, so just want to say, thank you and love you!