Tales of My Seven Sisters

Being the eighth girl in a family of fourteen was not much fun when I was growing up. You had to wear clothes which are hand me downs many times over and at family events, you will only be assigned mundane, menial tasks because other more interesting chores have already been taken up. But, I would not want to trade the sisters I have for anything in the world. They can be annoying sometimes, but always lovable and I know if ever I am in dire need, I can go to them for help. And the funny thing is that each one of them is different and unique in their own way; physically, emotionally or psycho-socially, etc; almost as if there is no genetic link between them or rather us.

My eldest sister Che Chik would be one of the most interesting individuals I have met. She’s introverted, sensitive and taciturn. The few words she speaks are meaningful and thoroughly thought out and despite her gentle demeanor, she has a nerve of steel and is seldom ignored.

In her early years, my second sister I believe might have suffered slightly from the second child syndrome. It must have been tough for her to be in between a “princess” and a long awaited son. But Yan as she is known as, I believe is one smart cookie. She has the ability to quote information and facts she heard from the radio or TV or read even after a long time have passed. And her observation and questioning skills are of the highest order.

Next comes Ashikin, almost a substitute mum for me in my childhood years although she is just eleven years older. When I was little, she had to carry me everywhere; even when she went out to play. I remember nights when I had to wait for her to finish with the dishes before being tucked in. She was also a beauty in those days and when she got married and left with her hubby, I felt a sense of loss somewhat.

My sister Mimi is the only unmarried sibling in the family. However, Mimi has a heart of gold and is a favorite to many people, especially the nieces and nephews. She is one of the few people who view the task of taking care of our invalid mum as a privilege, not a duty. Her spirit of caring and giving selflessly and openhandedly inspires me in every way.

My fifth sister, an ex-teacher is a worrier and seemed to take the world on her shoulders. When she is calm and untroubled, Rihan is extremely fun and a truly generous soul. She is also very resourceful and creative and I learnt a lot from her in my formative years.

I had very little in common with my sister Norain in my adolescent days because from my perspective then, she was a bit of an extremist. Her constant lectures and blatant disapproval of the way I dressed and behaved practically drove us apart. But now that we are older, we have learned to accept and appreciate each other and I admire her for her strength and resilience.

Last but not least is my sister Zu. I don’t know if she’d consider me a friend because she has lots of her own as she had always been extremely popular until now. But I consider Zu as one of my closest friends . When we were kids, we played and talked and fought and I remember times when I used to be mean and rough with her, but she would never retaliate. Although she was only a year older, she used to beat me at everything from checkers to badminton. She was also able to sing better, read more books and she also has a mole on her chin which caught everyone’s attention and it used to turn me green with envy.

I have been truly blessed! Having these wonderful creatures as sisters have truly enriched me.. And I pray that God will grant them long life, good health, peace, happiness and bountiful blessings for this life and the thereafter.