As a “tribute” to my brother’s birthday, I decided to reflect on our relationship in the past 16 years. The ups and downs; the delight and sorrow; the PROS and CONS.

It is just me and him with 6 years in between; given that I am 6 years brighter, sharper, and better looking. Oh, is it not what we are talking about? Okay. Moving on. What are the pros of having him around, you ask?

1. Redirecting the Blame. “Who left the dishes on the sink?!”, “Who forgot to turn off the heater?!”, “Why is there no rice?!” – Ask Dar. I was at work early. I just got home.
2. Call me Miss Commander-in-Chief. Dar, make me a portion of what you are cooking. – “Eh.”
   Are you going upstairs? Get my laptop charger on your way back. Please. – “Oh my God, sis.”
   Turn the lights on. – “….”
   *Someone knocking* Dar, open the door. That is Andy. – “Soooooo lazy (but still opens the door).”
3. Witness. Bodyguard. Buddy. Eh mum, I already gave you the money I owe you. Dar was here. He knows. 
   Dar, I’m going to Spar. Come with me just in case I get stabbed on the way.
   What time are you going to the gym? Just go same time as me.
4. The Best Third-Wheel Benefit. Dar, go take a photo of me and Andrew… Take another one.
5. Someone to Annoy.
   

   Spot the Difference

Both of us were brought up (mostly) by our grandparents so he is also a lola’s boy, lolo’s (grandfather’s) boy as well as the uncles’ boy, mumma’s boy… he is pretty spoilt by everyone. He is the type to get along with everybody and favoured by the majority… which brings me to CON number

1. The Youngest is Usually the Favourite. I just cannot argue that. He gets what he wants when he asks for it.
2. Usually Gets Away with Mistakes. I am the oldest and it is my responsibility to set an example. Meaning if he forgets to cook rice; it is because “sis never does”.
3. He Gets The Dough. Whether going to the cinema, bus tickets, gym membership, network contract – mumma got it covered. I did not get as much benefits as he did. I had to clean the toilet to earn my £5 when I was his age. Pffft.
4. I Always Feel Responsible so… I have extra worries. I have to make sure he is on the “right” path and I will probably go the extra mile to ensure he does not end up in the gutter.
5. Third-Wheel Disadvantage. The equivalent trade. Sis has to pay for my services through food or by not asking me for the tener I owe her.

I hope I have brought out a whirl of nostalgic emotions – not the one that made you want to kill your younger sibling – but the one that made you smile. 🙂

Again, Happy 16th Birthday Dar. Love you always.

Han xx