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My sister and I as kids
My sister and I as kids
Photo by Paula Stone
Culture

Together Forever: Five Forgotten Joys of Having a Sister

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCF chapter.

All of our families look different, especially when it comes to siblings. Some of us have brothers, some have sisters, some have both, while others have none at all. Each familial arrangement has its ups and downs, as anyone in each could tell you. However, some may hold unique benefits. In honor of Women’s History Month, I will discuss the special value that sisterhood brings. This could apply to any set of sisters, but I will specifically be referring to sisters close in age, as I have two triplet sisters. My relationship with them has meant so much to me throughout my life. So, I would like to share why sisterhood is such a blessing, even if it can feel annoying at times. 

I understand that these benefits may not apply to all sisters, especially if they are far apart in age or have a strained relationship. This list may also be relatable to some who have brothers as well. Despite this, I believe that these characteristics reflect the general beauty and value of sisterly bonds.

Laura Reiss and Megan Lee hugging at a Nourish Kindness event
Mia Paolini
You can confide in each other

Whenever I have a secret to tell or a rant to spill, I always go to one of my sisters first. Not only are they excited to hear the tea, but they are also willing to listen with no judgment whatsoever. This level of openness towards one another brings us very close and it is something that I cannot find even in my closest friendships.

You have a built-in, lifelong friend

Whether you like it or not, in most cases you and your sister are connected for life as family and cannot escape one another. This can actually be a really great thing! A sister ensures that you will always have a friend by your side throughout all stages of life. It is harder to feel lonely when you know you have a sister you can count on.

You have a second (or third!) closet

I understand that not all sisters can share clothes, but this is a real benefit in my life because my sisters are the same age and of a similar size as me. However, clothes are not the only commodities that sisters can share. Hair products, makeup, and jewelry are also fair game (usually)! Sharing with your siblings does not always have to be a bad thing.

You can give and receive great advice

In many cases, our sisters are whom we can relate to most. This means that the advice that you can get from them about anything—whether it be about relationships, friendships, or fashion—will be more meaningful and effective than what you may get from anyone else. The same goes for the advice that you give your sister! Your deep understanding and knowledge of one another can go a long way.

You can be crazy together

Perhaps one of the most meaningful benefits of sisterhood is the fact that you can be entirely yourself (even a little crazy, at times) without judgment. My sisters and I have so many inside jokes and nicknames for each other that no one else would understand. Our goofiness makes our interactions all the more enjoyable every day, and it also strengthens our bond as sisters.

Anna Schultz-Girls Laying In Grass At The Park
Anna Schultz / Her Campus

Sisters are gifts that are far too often taken for granted. Sometimes, I am guilty of this myself. Since she is always in your life, it is easy to focus on the negative aspects of your relationship. However, your bond with your sister is a true blessing. Especially during Women’s History Month, be sure to show her how much you appreciate her!

Mary Connolly is a Biomedical Sciences major at UCF with a minor in Political Science, originally from New Hampshire. In her free time, she enjoys doing community service, working out, and hanging out with her beloved Mini Aussie. Some other clubs that Mary is involved in include Catholic Campus Ministry, College Republicans, Volunteer UCF, and Omega Phi Alpha.