Sibling Rivalry |
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Rivalry is defined in the dictionary as trying to get the same thing as another; to do something better than another; to be equal to or as good as another. Sisters and brothers compete with each other constantly, whether they admit it or not. Who can get the best grades? Who can get the best-looking boyfriend? Who can get married first? Who makes the most money? This competition goes on throughout their lives. Who has the most expensive house? Who has the brightest children?
How can this be stopped? Sadly, sibling rivalry is taught in childhood by the parents. "Can you make as good grades as your brother?" Tommy’s mother asks him on the first day of school. "I wonder who is going to have the most boyfriends?" Cindy’s father asks as he looks at both of his daughters. This is indeed unfortunate. The world is hard enough; why compete within our own family? Not every child is going to make straight As. Not every child is going to be stunningly attractive. Why can’t parents take each child as an individual? Why can’t siblings take each other for the best, without hard feelings?
We all have special talents. We all have faults. But in our family we need to love each other as ourselves. If you feel jealousy in your heart toward your sibling, go and talk with him or her. Don’t carry unhappy thoughts about a person who should be one of your best friends in life. To have a sister or brother is special; enjoy it.
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