Growing up with an older brother meant growing up with a best friend. Although he is two years older, it seems as if we are twins; we have the same mannerisms, the same personality, we understand each other like no one else does, and some even say that we look alike. I even followed his footsteps in becoming a Monmouth Hawk, since we always knew our university would be the perfect fit for the both of us.
We are, however, pursuing different academic majors and focusing on different interests, which helps us constantly learn from each other. Although we exhibit an abundance of similarities, we are polar opposites in some areas; I’m more creative while he’s more logical, and I’m more sensitive while he’s more stoic.
Ever since we were kids, we’ve been notorious for bickering about the most trivial matters and then laughing about a completely different subject five minutes later. Our childhood consisted of fighting over the TV remote, the leftovers in the fridge, and of course who would use the shower first; things that we still argue about now, especially since we are older. But the number of fights we’ve had just can’t compare to the number of inside jokes.
Growing up, I almost never got bored because I always had someone to play video games with, someone to watch movies with, and someone to play sports outside with. Although he’s my only sibling, there’s never a dull moment in our household. We never fail to make each other laugh, and we can sense when we need it the most. I wouldn’t give up the memories we share together for anything.
I’ve always wondered what it would be like to have another sibling. Would we still be as close as we are now? Now, I realize that my brother is the only one I need, and I would not give that up for anything. Now, I realize to never take my brother for granted because he’s the only one who will never leave my side. In fifty years, we’ll still be crying of laughter over a frivolous inside joke. It’s the small things like that which makes a sibling relationship so meaningful.
Since he’s the older sibling, he has taught me so much through his own experience. He’s the first person I go to for advice, and he is constantly helping me grow as a person. He’s my role model, and his persistence and dedication in everything he does will never stop inspiring me.
We’re like Ross and Monica from Friends or Kevin and Kate from This Is Us, because nothing can get in the way of our sibling bond. No matter how much we argue, I know that he will always have my back and I will have his. I’ve had dozens of friends come and go, but he’s the only person who will be there no matter what. I couldn’t imagine life without my teacher, my inspiration, and most importantly, my best friend.
Happy 21st birthday, Justin!
PHOTO TAKEN by Melissa Badamo
