A Bundle of Joy

Caly Lebel                                                    A2                                          January 29, 2004

            Have you ever had an experience that changed your whole outlook on life?  Well, I have.  When my baby sister was born it changed my whole perspective on everything.  On May 4, 1997 a beautiful baby girl came into the world.  She changed my life in ways I had never imagined possible.  I realized these changes were very good changes in me.  This was a significant event in my life and I would like to share it with you.  I would not trade that day for anything else in the world.

            I was almost 7 years old when I found out my mother was pregnant.  I was filled with joy when I first found out.  I was an only child and another playmate was about to come into my life.  I had been the center of my parent’s attention since the day I was born.  I was their little princess and I got everything I wanted.  As the months of my mother’s pregnancy went on, I realized that I was slowly fading away from being my parent’s center of attention anymore.  I did not like that very much.  I had been so selfish and had not thought of anybody but myself.  I did not want this baby anymore because I did not think anything good could come from her.  I was so wrong.  Weighing in at 6 lbs. 3 oz., Malerie Ann Lebel was born on May 4, 1997 at 2:36 in the afternoon.  When I first met her, all my jealousy went away.  This beautiful baby girl looked so peaceful and innocent.  I concluded that nothing bad could ever come from her.  I knew that I had to take care of this child and be the best big sister I could be.  I never cared for someone so strongly.  I kissed her soft forehead and whispered “I love you.”  Malerie changed my life for the better.

            The meaning of this experience was in large part about responsibility.  I had become a big sister which was a huge responsibility.  I had the job of looking after this baby.  I finally learned to share which was something I never really had to do before.  I learned to think of someone other than myself.  I now appreciate every little thing I have…like my little sister, a bundle of joy.  I have not only a sister but a best friend.  After all these years Malerie and I are as close as we will ever be.  The lesson I learned from this experience was to always appreciate everything I have and everything I will ever receive in life.  I believe this experience changed me into a better person.