Dear Not-So-Baby Brother,

Since the very beginning, you have been nothing but an adventure, and I don’t think that that will ever change. Whether it was getting into a fight about who had to help put the dishes away or set the table or running around the house singing “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston. When I look at you I will always see the same kindergartner that I walked to his classroom every single morning for an entire school year, no matter how old or tall you get. Don’t worry though. I’m not just going to reminisce about our childhood and what it was like growing up with you as my little brother. I want to tell you a few things that I could probably never say to your face.

First, you need to know how lucky I am to have you. I was alone for three whole years before you came along. As you can imagine, things got a little boring being the center of attention. You joining the party was the best thing that could have happened because not only did I have some time to breathe without everyone in my face the whole time, I finally had something I could be obsessed with. I remember seeing you as a tiny baby and just thinking, “Wow! I have a baby brother! He’s so cool!” Little did I know, at three-years-old, I had just met my favorite person to walk this planet. You are my forever friend and I’m so lucky to have you.

Secondly, I want you to know that I’ll always be there for you. Life is going to get really crazy and really hectic from here on out, so it’s important that you know that I am always just a phone call or text message away. No matter what, I will always answer! Another thing that I want you to remember is that life goes on and everything will always be okay in the end. So, if it’s not okay, then it’s not the end. Sure, you’re going to have plenty of times when you hurt so much it feels like the end; everyone does at some point. Don’t let that feeling control you! Fight through it and you’ll see the light in everything. Regardless, you may need someone to talk to about how it feels like the end, despite you knowing that it isn’t. Know that I am always available to be that someone.

Lastly, know that I’m so proud of you. Every single day no matter what it is that you do, I’m proud to call myself your sister. You have already accomplished so much and you only just turned eighteen. You have your whole entire life ahead of you to continue to be great and I can’t wait to watch you do it! You are so determined and that is what is truly inspiring, not only to me but to those around you. I’ll always be around to support you in any and every decision you make because I know that you will go so far in life!

Thank you for everything you have taught me just by being my brother. I can’t even imagine my life without you in it. You have truly made me the person I am today and for that I’m so grateful.

Love always,

Your sister