Dear sis, I celebrate you.

Family isn't a choice you make; it's a selection made for you. Whether orchestrated by spiritual beings or guided by Mother Nature, the combination of parents and siblings you grow up with is often so perfect that even if given the choice, you wouldn't alter it.

Throughout my life, family has been my top priority. I can't imagine doing anything without them; they are my reason for existence. Despite caring for others, no one has shown me the same level of concern and care as my little sister. On this special occasion of her birthday, I take this moment to express how deeply I admire and adore her.

Dear Sis,
Each birthday, I post your picture and a few lines on my status, not due to a lack of words, but WhatsApp's limits. Today, I've chosen this wonderful community to express openly how much you mean to me, sharing with those who value friends and family.

I vividly recall 26years ago today . Mom noticed your eagerness to leave her womb and alerted Dad, who hurried home from work to take her to the hospital. While my siblings and I prayed for your safe arrival, you surprised us by being a girl. We were upset, hoping for a baby brother to maintain our unique pattern of two girls and two boys after the loss of our elder brother.

The news wasn't pleasant. Dad requested that I accompany him to the hospital as the eldest to assist Mom, given your jaundice condition. Initially hesitant, upon arriving at the hospital and seeing you, my heart melted, and any lingering anger was swiftly replaced with love.

Your beauty was captivating, and every tiny detail about you invoked a strong urge to protect you. I watched you grow, becoming everything to me, and my sole desire was to see you happy. From carrying and feeding you to rocking you to sleep, these moments were cherished. Even as you entered your teenage years, you remained my little baby. I often subtracted two years from your age on birthdays, unwilling to acknowledge the reality of you growing up, much to your amusement.

Witnessing your transformation into a woman was like watching a butterfly emerge. I took on the role of teaching you about womanhood, amazed at how fast my little baby was growing up. You became my biggest fan and supporter, even sneakily reading stories I wrote, despite their mature content. Your encouragement to finish captivating tales became my motivation, and on days when inspiration waned, you were my source of inspiration, my mojo.

True to your name, Comfort, you brought immense comfort to our family. Despite being the youngest, you had a knack for saying the right words at the right time, calming situations and spreading relaxation. Your ability to share love and peace everywhere you went is likely why you became your teacher's favorite at school.

You had a strong desire to study at Obafemi Awolowo University, and despite Dad not working, I took it upon myself to ensure you enrolled in the school for your chosen course. My writing inspired you to follow my path into writing, and to my delight, you excelled beyond my achievements. Your dedication paid off with numerous awards as a poet and storyteller. Pursuing counseling, your ability to communicate and calm situations has made you an exceptional counselor.

I stand in awe as you've created a thriving community, becoming a popular influencer on the bird app and a sought-after relationship counselor on Instagram with a growing following. Your reels and posts showcase your intelligence and creativity, making me feel incredibly lucky to have such an accomplished sister. Your unstoppable pursuit of goals inspires me, and the fact that you credit your success to me, leaves me both humbled and proud. From your mentor, I've become your mentee and I bear testament to your hard work and dedication.

Every day, I watch you with immense pride, grateful to call you my sister. Your actions have not only honored our family name but have also forged a positive and lasting legacy. Your heart is truly kind and compassionate. Your willingness to sacrifice, even going hungry or without raiment, for the sake of those in need, showcases your selflessness. The constant giveaways to the less privileged on your social platforms contribute to the blessings you receive from God. You've not only touched the lives of many but have been a significant blessing to our family. In challenging times, you've come through repeatedly, attributing it to payback for past deeds, but I believe your generosity far exceeds anything I've done for you.

You're a beacon of light in darkness, the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. Your consistent presence in challenging times is beyond words, and despite health challenges, you tirelessly work, driven by the desire to keep the family happy. It's remarkable that the youngest in the family has become a source of hope and inspiration. You are everything and more, and we feel truly blessed to have you.

On your special day, I pray that all your heart's desires come true. May good health and divine bliss be your constant companions. May everything you touch flourish, and may your name resonate across oceans, celebrated by men and women alike.

I appreciate having you as a part of my family, and being your sister brings me immense joy. My love for you goes beyond what words can express. Wishing you many more years of celebration ahead.

With love

Your big sis
Zizymena ❤️