I Love My Brother's Stuff More Than He Does

Anonymous Elusive Meddler #573 · General

So here’s a thing that maybe only the youngest sibling can understand. I’ve noticed something about my older brother, his stuff is always better than mine, no matter what it is. The toys he played with are in mint condition, his books smell of newness even if they’re years old, and everything just seems to be in this perfect state of existence that I long for but can’t seem to achieve. It’s not like I’m a slob, I keep my room clean, but there’s something about the way he leaves things that somehow still manages to make them look pristine. Last night, I couldn't take it anymore and I swapped his favorite teddy bear with one of mine without him noticing. I felt this rush of satisfaction as if taking over his stuff was like a little victory. But then today at breakfast, when my dad pointed out how well-cared-for everything still is in his room, my brother just gave me this weird look that said he knew exactly what happened. Now here I am, feeling pretty guilty about it but also not really caring all that much because, honestly, I think my stuff deserves some love too. So, does anyone else feel like they have a bit of a grudge against their sibling’s seemingly perfect world? And what can I do to stop swapping things?