Story Time: Baby Sister’s College Graduation

I recently traveled to RI to visit my family and to attend my baby sister’s graduation from college.  As I was watching her cross the stage, all sorts of emotions and memories came pouring from me.  Out came pouring the memories…I remember naming the girl (whose name was now just being called to receive a diploma) after my then best friend.  I even remember the very day that she came home from the hospital; it was the beginning of an end for me where I would forever be stripped of my title as the baby sister.  I was not at all pleased when she came home, but not being pleased quickly grew into me being excited and then not so excited about changing her diaper and helping with the bottle feedings.

I remember her first word, when she took her first steps, our first of many fights, and my very favorite, the first song that she committed to memory.  I remember her many firsts as well; her first insecurity, fear, challenge, dissappointment, victory, accomplishment, milestone, etc. The more that I began to remember the more I felt.  I felt so much; I was happy, nervous, sad, and fearful all at the same time.  I was happy for the future that lay ahead of her, I was nervous about the unknown, I was sad that she grew up on me and may not need me the same way anymore, and I was fearful…there is just something about the world outside of college…its not so kind or understanding.  Even with all of my feelings I am hopeful that she will never take no for an answer; that she will always place her best foot forward; that she will always  look to find the silver lining in all circumstances; that she will never burn a bridge; that she will meet each day with a smile; and that she understands her soft skills are just as important as her hard skills A.K.A her credentials/degree.

I was brought out of my memories and my feelings when my sister dabbed across the stage to receive her degree.  All that I could do was shake my head, laugh, and say proudly that “thats my baby sister!”  If your reading baby sis know that I love you and I wish enough of everything for you.  Cheers to new beginnings!!!