How I Learnt to Share (Eventually… But Very Reluctantly)

Growing Up with a Sibling in the ’90s

In the ’90s, having a sibling meant learning the art of dealing with the little conflicts that came up every day. We didn’t need big reasons to fight, just one extra bite was enough to start World War III. In our house, keeping things ‘equal’ and learning to share was a constant struggle. Because the tiniest difference could lead to a full-blown crisis.

I grew up with a younger brother, and while I did love him (in theory), that love came with very strict terms and conditions. Especially when it came to food.

How I Outsmarted My Brother Every Time

Now, let me confess something. I never shared Maggi willingly. Never ever. My brother and I had this tradition—watching our favourite TV shows with hot bowls of Maggi. I Dream of Jeannie was one of our top picks. ( You can catch all my thoughts on I Dream of Jeannie here.)
As Jeannie did her magic on screen, I was doing mine behind the stove.

Instead of measuring who got more or pulling out a weighing scale, I found a smarter way. I’d graciously volunteer to make the Maggi.

“Tum baith jao, main banati hoon,” I’d say, acting like the sweetest sister ever.

While he sat like a prince ( by the name, his name is ‘Kuwar’) watching TV, I’d cook the Maggi, secretly scoop out an extra serving, and stash it behind the gas stove.

Then I’d come back with a big smile, hand him the bowl and watch him eat in peace. Then, I’d slip back to the kitchen and refill my bowl from the secret stash.
And just to keep my act clean, I’d even offer to take the bowls back to the kitchen once we were done. “Main rakh ke aati hoon,” I’d say, all helpful and innocent—when really, I just wanted to make sure that he doesn’t find the secret spot behind the stove. No drama, no fight, and definitely more Maggi for me. Smart move, right?

When It Came to Uncle Chips, Sharing Was Never an Option

Now Maggi was still something I could cheat-share. But Uncle Chips? Oh no.

If my brother so much as touched my packet, I’d hand it over to him in frustration and tell him to buy me a new one. Because Uncle Chips were completely off-limits- mine and mine alone.

The Great Cold Drink Debate

Then came the Cold Drink Wars. Every time we had to share a bottle, we’d measure carefully, look at the glasses from every angle, and make sure there were no discrepancies.

Our mother would call out from the next room, “If someone saw you two right now, they’d never believe you’re from a decent family!”

P.S.: Looks like fairness fights run in the family. My daughters have picked up right where we left off. Must be something in the genes.

When You Realize Marriage Includes Sharing Your Favorite Snacks

Marriage changes everything. You don’t just share a life, a room, or a Netflix account. You share your chips.
I still remember the feeling of opening my first post-marriage packet of chips—only to share it not only with my husband but also with my brother-in-law.

I looked at that half-eaten packet and suddenly, my brother’s face flashed before my eyes.

I thought of all those childhood moments when he happily ate the smaller portion, never questioned the quantity, and never found my secret stash. And suddenly, my heart ached.

The person I never shared with—was probably the one who deserved it the most.

Some Childhood Habits Die Hard

Today, whenever I open a packet of chips, I offer it around. Not because I’m generous, but more like… socially obligated.

And honestly? Between you and me….I still don’t share my chips. Not with my husband (he’s finally seeing the real me after all these years), not with my kids, not with anyone. Okay, fine, maybe I hand over one or two chips with a dramatic sigh, but that’s it.

Back then, it was all about Uncle Chips. Now, it’s Lay’s Magic Masala. The brand changed. The love didn’t.

And while I may have grown up, matured, and learnt the art of sharing… Some childhood rules still apply.
Looking back, it wasn’t about Maggi or chips at all. It was about having something I could call mine. Those silly fights over snacks? They were just my way of feeling in control.

What’s funny is that my older daughter is my carbon copy when it comes to snacks. I see myself in her every time she clutches her packet of chips.
I nag her to share all the time, because honestly, I don’t want her to end up like me.

Now I’ve grown (a little), and I’ve realized that sharing isn’t about losing. Sometimes, the things you cling to the most are exactly what you need to start letting go of.

I hope I didn’t come across as a mean sister, and you don’t think any less of me after reading this.

So do me a favor? Drop a comment and share your own sibling stories.
Did you fight over Maggi too? Or argue about who got more cold drink? Maybe hide snacks where no one could find them? Basically anything that makes me feel a little less guilty, and a little more human.

Coming up next: How I Hide Snacks from My Kids? (Yes, I Still Do It).

Secretly snacking,

Harleen