To My Middle Child, Don’t Ever Doubt Your Place

I know you feel as though you live in the shadow of your other siblings.

But what you don’t always see is how you always make your presence known in a special way with your amazing qualities.

You compare yourself with your siblings. In doing that you, usually feel that you fall short. You shouldn’t feel that way because at times it is you the one that sets a good example to other siblings.

You should know that your younger brother brags to his friends about you when you’re not around. He looks up to you for guidance and advice even if he’s throwing things at you at the same time.

Being the middle child doesn’t make you the “family misfit.”  You will, at times, feel as though you are kind of floating in the family without a real title or identity.

But in that middle space is also a lot of freedom.

Freedom to try new things and see who you want to be.

You have none of the pressure of being the oldest and the one who had to set the tone for our family in school and sports.

None of the pressure of being the youngest who, once you and your sister go off to college, will be at home and the sole focus of your father and my attention.

I can see how being the middle child is shaping you into a great human being and you should know how special you are to me always.

As your mom, I have learned the delicate balance of harnessing your relentlessness without squashing your enthusiasm.

I know that both will serve you well in life and I have no doubt that whatever you set your mind to you will accomplish.

At times you may feel a little lost, but my hope is that you see the opportunity you have. The opportunity in that contemplative time and the beauty of being able to make your own spotlight.

In so many ways you already have!