The other day at my internship, I was telling a story about you. I referred to you as “my baby sister,” which resulted in one of the other interns asking me, “Oh, how old is she?”

I blushed before I answered: “Seventeen…”

I guess you’re not really my "baby sister” anymore. You’re driving (what was once my car) to your own senior parking spot at high school. You’re picking out a prom dress. You’re deciding where you’ll attend college. You’re taller than me. Even though I stand on my tippy-toes when we take pictures together, and even though you have to bend down for me to braid your hair, you are still, and will always be my baby sister.

When I look up at you, I still see that chunky little baby I was afraid to carry at three years old. You were too precious, too perfect: what if I dropped you? Well, that feeling remains even now: what if I let you down?

I’ve spent the better part of my life trying to be an acceptable role model for you, but the more I think about it, the more I realize that all along you’ve been more of a role model for me. I think the world of you. You’re daring, kind, hilarious, tenacious, dedicated, intelligent, hardworking, and above all else, unapologetically you.

With your big heart and that sparkle in your eye, you’ve taught me the true meaning of loyalty, friendship, adventure, and love. You’ll forever be my favorite argument, my choice partner in crime, my favorite friend to play dress-up with, my first phone call, and so much more. Thank you for everything you’ve been and will continue to be for me. I only hope I can be a semblance of that for you.

My greatest wish for you is that you continue to conquer your dreams with courage and confidence, always keeping your beautiful smile. You know you’re capable of anything you set your mind to, right?

You are nothing shy of spectacular, Sam. Nothing makes me happier than getting to call myself your big sister. You may not need the advice or support that comes with that title so much anymore, but I promise I will always love you and be there for you.

After all, you’re my baby sister.