Being the eldest sibling is incredibly tough no matter what anyone tells you. Generally because you’re the first, you are the experiment for the rest of the family, your parents are so worried about dropping and breaking you that they create a tonne of rules that have literally disappeared by the appearance of a younger brother or sister.
Suddenly, life does not revolve around you any longer. Far from it, you are now the third parent. With that comes responsibility and quite a few phrases which are used constantly.
1. Share that with your sister/brother!
But… it’s mine? What’s this “sharing” you speak of? I’m not on board with this.
2. You’re the oldest, stop acting like a baby.
I remember the days when I used to be a baby. They were great. Now, I’m acting like an older child.
3. Act responsibly.
Acting… again?
4. Will you set a good example for the love of God?!
I’m as new to this as you are… What’s a good example? Am I a role model?
5. Let your brother/sister borrow your clothes.
Learn to hide the clothes you love at an early age, it’s safer that way.
6. Why have you locked your brother/sister out of the room again?
The same reason you have left them with me, in order to ensure peace and quiet.
7. Can you not just show your brother/sister that you can eat your dinner?
I really don’t think they care what I am eating to be entirely honest.
8. You make sure you look after your brother/sister at school?
Well, I’m in a completely different building so unless you have managed to buy me roller skates… Wait, have you bought me roller skates?
9. And WHERE were you?!
I missed the memo informing me I had to be with my siblings at all times.
10. Did you get your brother/sister to lie for you?!
Technically, yes. I’m not sure what other benefits I have from this situation.
11. They don’t get away with everything!
That’s funny because I did exactly the same thing two months ago and got grounded.
12. MIND YOUR BROTHER/SISTER!
I would like to quit this job, please.
13. I’m disappointed in you, you’re older.
But I definitely do not have enough life experience to handle this…
14. You’re finished your homework? Great, you can help your sister/brother with theirs.
No, wait! I still have an essay to write. I’ll be gone for the rest of the evening.
15. Stop being bossy.
I’m really confused about what you want from me here.
