My big sister was my best friend. We dressed alike. We loved the same games and the same movies. She even taught me how to read and write. Thing is, my parents couldn’t afford to send both of us to school, so she pretty much taught me everything. When I got my first period, she told me what to do.

Things changed when she got married. She moved to another town with her husband – a whole seven hours away! Since I wasn’t in school, I didn’t have any other friend. To make matters worse, I had no idea when next I would see her. She promised to write and call, but that didn’t make me feel any better.

After she left, I stayed in my room and sulked. I stared at the walls. I was so lonely. Each time my mum asked me to follow her somewhere, I made up an excuse. Until the day she insisted I follow her to the market.

In the food section, my mum started gisting with Iya Beji, a popular vegetable seller. I was sitting in a corner, bored to my bones, when a girl who looked my age tapped me on the shoulder. She was Kehinde, Iya Beji’s daughter.

We got talking. Turns out we had a lot in common. Her twin brother also left home the year before. She was now the only child with her parents. I couldn’t believe it. Here I was longing for my sister when her twin was gone!

When I asked Kehinde for tips on coping with loneliness, here’s what she said:

1. We’ll all grow up and leave home someday. It’s perfectly normal.
2. Even though your sister has moved away, she’s still your sister. Nothing can change that. Instead of dwelling on her absence, remember the good times you shared.
3. Join Springster. You’ll read amazing stories and learn you’re not alone. Many girls are going through the same thing as you.
4. When you’re lonely, hiding away isn’t such a good idea. Go out there and make friends with wonderfol people. You’ll be pleasantly surprised.

I took Kehinde’s advice, and now I’m doing much better. The loneliness is all gone. Even my big sister can’t believe how many new friends I have. Hey, if I could do it, so can you.

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