*Author’s Note: Names and locations have been changed due to the sensitive nature of the piece.
I am an only child, and growing up was sometimes a little lonely. I had friends that I could hang out with and share secrets with but for me, I always wondered what it would be like to have a sibling. All of my friends who had siblings told me they were jealous of me being an only child. Well, I was jealous of them for having siblings.
I think due to my upbringing and being an only child, I have learned to be self-sufficient. There are occasions where I can be selfish – the con of being an only child – but when it comes down to it, I really love to share and give. I wanted a sibling who I could share experiences with and be there for them whenever they needed it.
Even at the age of 25, I still sometimes wonder what it would be like to have a sibling and the ups and downs that come with that type of relationship.
Read the full personal essay at quailbellmagazine.com.
