To the girl on my hip, I remember the day you were born and part of me thought it was a joke. I had already gone six years and nine months without you, so what was I supposed to do with you? How were you supposed to fit into my world and our family?
Very quickly, I learned that my role in your life was to look after you. You made me more patient, more aware of everyone and everything around me, as I unknowingly self-proclaimed my role as your protector. With every diaper and outfit change, usually thanks to the ridiculously messy way, you’d eat or the countless times you’d spew, you taught me to embrace the simple, unglamorous moments, the ones that often shape us.
You taught me how to teach others and have been such a huge lesson in learning patience and kindness. Along the way, I learned that teaching isn’t about having all the answers but about listening and being there whenever you need me. I’m not sure why it took me so long to learn this, but it breaks my heart knowing how often I thought my frustration or simply offering an answer was the solution.
You taught me how to love big and made me realise how much my heart could expand. You showed me that love isn’t just a feeling; it’s an action. Through you, I learned that I would give up anything, I mean literally anything for those I love.
As you turn 18 today, I can’t help but reflect on all the years that’ve gone by. It’s a miracle and a privilege to have watched you grow into the woman you are today, the one who is hardworking, the one who fights for justice, the one who wants everything to be perfect… maybe a little too perfect.
Your stubbornness is something I both admire and pray that you’ll surrender to the Lord, so that all of it can truly be used for good. Don’t ever back away from your convictions, whether they’re big or small. Your determination and drive will take you places.
You’ve already made such an impact on everyone around you and I know you’re just getting started. So, to my baby sister, I can’t wait to watch you continue to grow into the woman you are called to be.
I love you to infinity,
Your older sista.
Many Blessings, Grace. Xx
Leave a Reply to Grace BlakistonCancel reply