GIRL TALK: Sisterly Love

I have a big problem! My sister and I have been fighting a lot this summer. And it’s not like your regular fight. We slap, punch, kick and practically kill each other. We lose a lot of privileges because we fight. And once she said I should go crawl in a hole and die, and I was never sure if she actually meant it or not. I want to find out without starting something. Please help me with that and with ways to stay out of fighting.

-Hannah needs help!


There’s nothing like sisterly love, right?  I can’t even begin to tell you how many times my sister and I have fought over the years.  When we were younger, we definitely had our fair share of fights and it wasn’t pretty.  So what’s the good news?  Don’t worry, it gets better.

Try to think about why you’re fighting in the first place.  Did she borrow your favorite flip-flops without asking?  Did you read her diary? In the real world, this may not be a big deal. But in sister world, this is serious business.  If you can find out the reason for your fights, you may be able to stop them before they start.

Next time you feel the urge to hit your sister, stop, take a deep breath and count to 10.  Feel better?  If not, walk away.  Then, when you’re feeling a little better, try talking to your sister about what’s bothering you.  You could say, “Hey, I understand you like to borrow my clothes sometimes, but I’d really appreciate it if you’d respect my property and ask me first.  It would really mean a lot, thanks sis.” 

And trust me, your sister didn’t mean it when she said for you to crawl in a hole.  Every sister says something she doesn’t mean every now and then (believe me, I’ve done it, too!)  But you should totally let her know it hurts your feelings.  Maybe you girls can start a special Sister Day where you watch your favorite movies and eat your favorite foods. It may seem a little rough now, but the older you get, the closer you two will become.  And who knows, one day you may even be best friends!

Lots of love,
L’Oreal

POSTED ON 8/7/2008 3:17:00 PM