Sibling relationships with considerable age gaps can be difficult to navigate at times. You're experiencing major events of life at different times and growing up in different eras. Some things, however, are quite the same. I see a lot of myself and the struggles I had as a pre-teen in my sister today, and I hope I can impart some humble bits of wisdom on her now.

1. People are going to tell you that you’re too headstrong. Ignore them. Don’t go out of your way to be difficult, but keep and temper the fierce independence that runs through you. It will never be something to be ashamed of.

2. You impress me more than I’d like to admit. Your athletic ability constantly floors me, and your wittiness is beyond most of the adults in my acquaintance. Don’t let this go to your head.

3. Every day you’re evolving into who you’ll be as a person. Now is the time to make mistakes. Make mistakes and learn from them. Be gentle with yourself during this process.

4. You invoke an incredible amount of nostalgia in me. The arguments you’re having with Mom about being out past 9 p.m. and having sleepovers on school nights were the same ones I had with her years ago. I know it seems like she’s out to ruin your life, but she does it because she has your best interests in mind. Yes, seriously.

5. Love people, especially when it’s difficult to. We’re all hundreds and thousands of intricately woven tales that are sometimes ugly and sometimes tragic but often times beautiful. Have patience with those around you.

6. Amazing things will happen as long as you stay on track. School should be your number one priority; this is the gateway to the rest of your life. I know it’s frustrating and sometimes boring, but take advantage of your education and soak up everything you can.

7. As much as I want to, I can't guide you through every social challenge and moment of peer pressure you'll encounter. Trust in yourself to do what's best, because at the end of the day, you will be the number one person you rely on.

8. I know we have a tendency to get on each others' nerves, but whether it's to vent about that boy in your math class, eat ice cream straight from the carton at midnight, or to simply just talk about your day, you will always have me for anything you ever need in life. I promise.