I wonder what Unni thinks
when big sister is in the throes
of a terrible-twos tantrum?

Will she figure out why she is so stressed-out?
Probably not, from her point of view
it must be gas or bowel movement
causing some discomfort needing a diaper change.

or, hunger pangs which everyone knows
makes the stomach ache and cry
and makes mom come around.

little sis watches big sis,
who gives her a kiss once in a while
but mostly they just look into
each other’s eyes,

almost like looking
into a mirror, seeing the person
who is most like me.

same eyes,
same alert intelligence
someone who will be there
to laugh and cry. to be alive
together — sisters forever.