I am forever in her shadow. Always second. Always overlooked. Always forgotten.
She’s just too perfect. I can’t be like her.

When the first day of school begins, I know what to expect. It is like this every year—the same pattern over and over. Things never change. I have given up hoping they will.
As I walk into the classroom, the teacher looks at me and says what I thought she would, “Heather’s little sister?” I smile and nod, but feel empty, hollow. I know – once again— I won’t be able to be myself. This teacher will expect me to be perfect. But I can’t be like her.

No matter how hard I try, she will be better. I can’t resent her for that, it is not her fault. No one has the power —not even me—to dislike my perfect, older sister. She has a charisma that draws people in. She’s unforgettable. When people meet me, they expect perfection. I can’t be like her.
I have desired that trait my whole life but accepted my fate. Trying to be perfect is too hard. Not being able to accomplish it is harder. Knowing you tried but failed is like being stuck with a hundred needles. The pain is unbearable.
My whole life I fought to escape the legacy she created, but what if I am stuck? I will never be first. I will never be noticed. I will never be remembered.