7 Reasons…

I think there’s something to birth order. Yeah, I fought that realization for years, but you gotta admit, the oldest, middle children, and the youngest in families do share some similar characteristics.  I’ve even read about studies done on how birth order affects marriages! And, in watching my sons, I’m convinced teasing is in the genetic make-up of older siblings!!!

So, I thought about it and realized, “Hey! There were some perks to being the youngest!” Here are my top 7…

1. I have no problem speaking up for and in front of others!

With two older sisters pushing you to the forefront to speak for the team, how could you NOT be confident??!! (Remind me to tell you the Santa Clause story one day. )

2. I know how to use laughter to soften hearts.

You ever eased the wrath of an older sibling by making them laugh? Yeah, you feel me…

3. I know how to create my own personal escape…anytime…anywhere!

I remember many an imaginary classroom of stuffed animals in the closet or under the desk to avoid the incessant teasing of an older middle sister. I had a knack for creating hideaways. Needless to say, she always found me…but I could create ’em!

4. I am acutely aware of my surroundings at all times!

I mean really. Who knew when my middle sister would jump out and send me crashing to the floor with her infamous “body slam trip ups!” I had to stay ready! (That massive Amazon woman is now 5’5 to my 5’8  frame. Go figure! 🙂 )

5. I have a deep appreciation for vintage clothing.

Translation: HAND-ME-DOWNS!

6. I’ve learned to value and appreciate seasons of life.

My younger tomboy, talkative self dreaded the words “Why can’t you be like your sisters?” from teachers. Yeah, they were beautiful, intelligent, and never went to the principal’s office, but I could out talk and out argue any child or adult, and I did a mean wheely on my Huffy!!

BUT, my older more reserved self finally loved being compared to my older sisters. It definitely gave me cool points in high school when the upperclassmen (who were underclassmen to my sister) found out I was “little sis.”

7. I’m a great parent!

Although at times my sisters were unbearable, unapproachable, frustrating, and annoying as a kid, they were also my constant companions to the exotic and vast lands of our imagination! They were and always have been my greatest supporters and my greatest friends.

I so value how they always allowed me to be me with no judgment and no ridicule. Even my quirky love for Charlie Brown and the gang (well, maybe they did tease me about that–only until they read the comic books themselves and realized how deep they were!) This appreciation for who I was carried over into my appreciation and understanding of the various nuances of my boys’ personalities.

Thanks sissys! Because of you, I’m a great me! 🙂

What’s your birth order? How has it made a positive impact on your life? I’d love to know! 🙂