To the most caring, passionate, hardworking 14-year-old I know:

I want to start by saying thank you. Thank you for always making me laugh. I love that your laugh is contagious and that when you walk into a room your smile and laugh lightens up the place. I want to say thank you for always being there. Although you're significantly younger than the rest of us, you have been there for the entire family since day one. You have sat at my soccer games probably bored out of your mind, stood amongst the fence during track or cross country races and have sat on hot, stuffy pool decks to watch me swim. When it was time for me to go to college, you were my right hand moving into my dorm- from coming with me to sign my room papers to insisting on carrying my fish up to the room for me. Whether it's being my number one fan, my partner in crime or giving me a hug when you know I need it, they all equally mean the world to me.

Within the past fourteen years I have watched you grow from a tiny little fire cracker to a smart, beautiful (but sassy) teenager. You understand things most people your age don't and your brilliance amazes me every single day. I have no doubt in my mind that you will become very successful as you continue to grow older.

I envy your determination. When you want something you won't stop until you get it. I have seen you push yourself as hard as your short legs would take you to finish a run and I have watched you go from a little gold fish in the water to a great white shark. None of this would have happened if you weren't determined to accomplish all of your goals. Don't lose that determination, carry it with you everywhere you go because it will be extremely helpful in the future.

You are so strong. I will literally see you fight back tears when you want to cry and I will watch you fight with every word and breath you have when you are standing up for something you believe in. What I want you to know is that it is okay to cry when you need to; don't lose who you are by trying to put on a front. Never, and I mean never, give up if you are standing up for something that you are passionate about. You were not put on this earth to please everyone and you won't; so stick to your guns and don't back down.

Keep being the great friend that you are. You are not only my sister but you are my friend. I have been around you and your friends and I have seen how you treat them- keep being compassionate and caring. There has never been a time that I felt I couldn't come to you and that is a trait that is extraordinary to have. There may come a time in your life where you lose friends, and when this happens, because it will, remember this: "God says: The reason some people have turned against you and walked away from you without reason has nothing to do with you. It is because I have removed them from your life because they cannot go where I am taking you next. They will only hinder you in your next level because they have already served their purpose in your life. Let them go and keep moving. Greater is coming."

You're getting to that age where boys come into the picture; although I still see you as my baby sister, this conversation is inevitable so here it goes: you are the pink Starburst in a bag of yellow Starbursts and you better not ever let anyone treat you like you are less than that. Be smart and don't fall for any stupid pick up lines or cat calls. You are a person, not an object; remember that. I'll leave that there because I am in denial that you are now a freshman in high school.

Finally, when I say this you may think that I am absolutely crazy but hear me out; mom and dad are always right. When they tell you to be home at 11, don't argue; just do it. When they tell you to put your phone down and enjoy the moment you're in, do it. When they tell you that you can't leave the house until you clean your room, clean it. When they ground you because you did something wrong and you think they are the worst, just do the time. They are only trying to help you become an even better person than what you already are. You will thank them later.

I could keep going and going but I'll end this here: enjoy the next four years but remember that they are no where near the best years of your life. You will have so many new and exciting experiences in your life and high school is just the beginning. Never forget how you were raised and never lose sight of who you truly are. Life may be hard at times but mom and dad did a great job with all four of us girls and only want what is best for us. If you ever need anything I am here for you always. Keep doing great things.

Love your number one fan,

Kiara