“A sister is a forever friend.”
-Unknown

Dear Big Sis,

I know it’s been a while since I’ve had the chance to say this, but I wanted to say thank you. For the past 19 years, whether you realize it or not, you have acted as my best friend and my role model. I know that we’ve had our fights and we both have our own separate lives now, but nothing will ever mean more to me than growing up with a big sister like you.

First, I want to thank you for all of the amazing memories that you gave me as we grew up. Although we constantly fought, as I’m sure all sisters do, I always had my best friend at my side. Not many people get to hang out with their best friend every day, but I did. From sock wars to treehouse adventures, we created some of the best memories that I will remember forever.

Second, I want to thank you for being brutally honest with me. I can’t say that I appreciated you telling me that Santa Claus wasn’t real and ruining my childhood fantasies, but at the end of the day, you never hesitated to tell me the truth no matter how hard it was to swallow. Whenever I need an honest answer or opinion, I know that I can turn to you.

Third and most importantly, I want to thank you for putting up with me for so many years. As soon as I was able to walk, I was following you around the house and copying your every move. Although I’m sure it was super annoying for you to have me glued to your hip, it meant the world to me that you let me be.

I always wanted to be just like you. Back then it was wanting to wear the same clothes as you, listen to the same music as you and do all the things that you did. As we got older, it became more than that. As your younger sister, I realized I wanted to be as smart as you, as beautiful as you —both inside and out —, as caring as you and as sure of myself as you are of yourself.

I cannot imagine growing up without having you as a big sister. You taught me how to do my hair, how to wear makeup, how to talk to boys and most importantly, how to live my life. You never hesitate to go after what you want, you never let anyone tell you how things are supposed to be and you are always chasing your dreams. Just like when we were young, I can only hope that one day I can be just like you.

Although I may not always say it, I am lucky to have you as a big sister. I will forever cherish the moments that we have together and the memories from our childhood. No matter how near or far, you will always be my sister and I will always love you unconditionally.

Love,

Your Little Sis