I told myself stories to cope. I was the smart one. The creative one. The one who reads. These were the weapons of the physically outmatched. I built an identity out of my perceived disadvantages. If I couldn’t be tall and strong, I would be witty, sharp-tongued, and superior in every way that mattered.
Pop.
It starts with a growth spurt you didn’t see coming. One day you’re the protector, and the next, you’re looking up—literally—at someone you used to carry around. If you have a younger sister who towers over you and could probably take you in a wrestling match, you aren't alone. 1. The Mirror Shock I told myself stories to cope
One day, we decided to take a break from sibling rivalry and go for a hike in the nearby woods. As we walked, Emma told me about her passion for weightlifting and how it had helped her build strength and confidence. I realized that I had been focusing on the wrong things – I was so worried about losing my title as the stronger sibling that I had forgotten to support and encourage Emma.
It started with shoes. Suddenly, she was borrowing my sneakers and complaining they were too tight. Within six months, she wasn’t just matching my height; she was looking down at the top of my head. While my growth plateaus held firm at a modest 5’3”, my "little" sister sailed right past 5’9”. The one who reads
Before I could hit the floor, a hand grabbed the collar of my jacket. With incredible force, I was hoisted back to my feet. I looked up. Leo had her arm locked out, creating a physical barrier between me and the tumbling crowd. "Stay behind me!" she yelled over the music.
Many older siblings tell stories of the moment they realized their younger sister had surpassed them in height. This often comes with humorous realizations, such as sharing clothes only to find the younger sibling has a much longer reach or height. If I couldn’t be tall and strong, I
Being the older brother means you are supposed to keep your younger sister safe when you go out. That was my plan when I bought tickets for Leo and me to see our favorite rock band. Leo is nineteen, a college rower, and stands half a head taller than me. I am twenty-one and spent most of my college years sitting in a library.
The worst part? She wasn’t being mean. She thought it was hilarious. And honestly? It kind of was.”
"I'm fine," her voice echoed perfectly calmly from below. "Actually, you're moving a little slow. Can you pick up the pace?"