I remember the day so vividly.My mother whispered something in my ear and my father grabbed me up in his arms and we ran excitedly throughout the house.It was a joyous day, I was going to be a proud big sister!We were going to be inseperable, and I was going to teach her everything she would need to know, like where the milk tin was hidden, what to say to papa to get a chocolate for being good, how to smile sweetly when mama would get angry, she would learn fast.There was no doubt in my mind she would.
The next memory is a little blurred in the beginning.I was fast asleep during the peaceful and quiet hours of the night.Papa got a call from the hospital...she was here!She was finally here!We went to the hospital and went straight to the gallery where all the little babies were presented to their families.We were late and the curtains had fallen, but a very nice nurse allowed us to see our precious prize.And there as the curtains lifted i saw my baby sister for the first time, fast asleep in the arms of the nurse.What happened next I could never forget... the the lady smacked her cheek to get a response from her and the obviously disturbed angel yelled out in protest.At that moment, I remember feeling something I had never felt before.A curiously strong feeling that stirred within the very depths of my soul.As the frown took its place on my forehead, every muscle in my body tensed, the only thought that filled my baby mind was to jump through that barrier if I had to and smack that nurse senseless for touching that little bundle of beauty.I didnt realise it then, but as I look back now, it is clear to me, at that very point of time I had become the "big sister".
Nekita was not like the average girl in her babyhood.Everything about her was different, everything about her was special.Her very first report card at the tender age of 3 stated "Nekita does not hesitate to speak her mind, even to her teachers.I think she is going to grow up to be a politician".Although a few feet off the ground, she still packed a punch and was a force to be reckoned with.Boys got beaten up, the poor plants died at the hands of a "teacher" with a ruler in her hands.Naughty "students"...something needed to be done.A sense of defiance and strength that was unmistakeable, I always admired her and in a way was afraid of what she was going to do or say next.Thats what happens when you have a person as straightforward as her.People are seldom able to handle the truth, but thats exactly what you will get if you speak to her.The truth and nothing but the whole truth!My mother has tried and is still continuing in her efforts to explain to Nekita the ways of the world.How she should be more diplomatic and know what to say and when to say it.I laugh as I watch this battle of generations, I look at my mother and wonder if she realises that this strength comes from her.This air of courage against all odds is a gift shes given Nekita...Different, but still the same.
Our family went through hell and back in the last couple of years.I learned alot during this time and I'm still learning...People are never what they seem to be, its true what the say about knowing who your true friends are when you are down.Something you've looked up to and treated with utmost respect could turn out to be something very different.Life has a funny way of sneaking up on you.During the worst of times, I dont remember seeing my sister shed a tear.I know that air of defiance on her face meant she could take it on...and more, without flinching.I never realised just how much my baby sister had grown up...too soon if you ask me.I know that she is one of the most special people I have known and its a privilege to call her my sister.I couldnt be more proud...
We're so far apart and I miss you so much that it really does physically hurt.I worry about mama, but something in me is at peace because I know you are there by her side.I will not say that you shouldnt have gone through what you did at such a tender age, because I know that God has a purpose for everything.Your experiences guide you and I know you are intelligent enough to learn from them.Its been hard for me accepting the fact that you are growing up and even harder to know you have a boyfriend!!However, you dont need to worry, I think your big sister is growing up...besides, I think Gaurav is adorable.I love you with all my heart and soul and I want you to remember we may be worlds apart but it doesnt change a thing.We're really just a heartbeat away...you are my strength, my inspiration...My Queen.
