To my baby brother,

You grew up. You’re taller than me now, but just remember that I can still beat you up (well, maybe). You were annoying, but the kind of annoying that I only pretended to be bothered by. For years, it was you and me against the world. The two youngest, always fighting, but stuck at the hip. I took you for granted when we were together, and trust me, I miss you every second.

You were my first best friend. I got to be the leader and a mom, without having to compete for your attention. You were completely content to follow my commands, and listened to me whether I made sense or not. I got to teach you life lessons, so you wouldn’t follow in my footsteps, but could still learn that it’s OK to make your own mistakes.

Now, I’m in college and you’re alone. Every day, I’m rattled with guilt over leaving the one person who’s always been by my side. I hope you’re having fun, being the only child you always told me you wanted to be, when we argued and fought. I know you never meant it, and I know you miss me too. I just wanted to leave you with a few thoughts.

Be the best you can be.

You’re you, and that’s all you can ever be. Don’t let people hold you to unrealistic expectations. You’re exactly who you’re supposed to be right now.

But, remember, it's OK to grow up.

I’m not saying you’re childish, or you need to grow up. But one day, those video games won’t hold as much appeal, and you’ll trade your bike for a car. And one day, you’ll leave for college and it’s OK to grow apart from your small-town friends. And someday, another girl will come along, but under no circumstances is she allowed to replace me as your best friend.

Always have fun.

Now this is important. Life isn’t as serious as everyone makes it out to be. School is important, but so are your friends, and sports, and family. Make time for everything that makes you happy. Because being happy and having fun are the moments you'll always remember.

Mom is always right.

This took me the longest to realize. Everything she does is for your own good. In addition to mom always being right, I would like to add that, yes, I am too. She's been through life, she's made mistakes, so let her teach you the lessons she's learned, so you don't have to learn them the hard way.

I love you.

More than anything. You were my first best friend, and I’ll be your last best friend. There is nothing in this whole world that could ever replace you. You’re my baby brother and you always will be.

Love you more than you could ever possibly know,

Your Big Sister