To the little brother I will always love,

If there’s anything being away from my little brother has taught me, it’s that you don’t know what you have until it’s gone. Or until you’re away from it for a few months.

Not being able to go to your lacrosse games, help you with homework or just goof off together is a lot harder for me than I make it look. From the minute that you were born and became my little brother, you also became my best friend. I don’t say it enough, but growing up with you was a privilege.

Sure, we can have our occasional arguments, mostly because we know each other too well and know exactly what buttons to push. At the end of the day, though, I wouldn’t trade our relationship for the world. There’s no one who makes me laugh as hard or has my back through everything quite like you. Friends may come and go, but I know that “because I have a brother, I will always have a friend.”

You coming home from college and getting to see how much taller you’ve gotten and how many events I’ve missed makes me appreciate every single moment that we’ve shared together. When Dad ruined the surprise and told me you were coming home for my 21^st birthday I was so excited. I never thought the distance between us with you being away at college would make me miss you more. I know we have grown apart and aren’t as close anymore but I will always be here.

I could not be prouder of the young man that you have become over the years. Your confidence, work ethic, and compassion are admirable. The kindness that you extend to others is indescribable and you may not realize it, but your positivity and personality are contagious. You have always been there for me when I needed a friend and you may not show it as much but I know that you really care about me. Never let anyone put out the light that you have inside of you. To be so young and have achieved so much should fill you with pride and excitement for what your future holds. While I can’t tell you what your future holds, I can tell you that I will always be proud to be your big sister.

So, even though we don’t get to see each other or talk as much as we used to, I want you to know how much you mean to me. We may not be as close as we used to be when we were younger but you will always be the little brother anyone would be lucky to have. I can’t even put into words how proud I am of you and how much I miss spending time with you; so until you come home and spend not even an hour in until you go to see your girlfriend. Keep up the good work in college and kick ass in lacrosse.

See you soon.

Love always,

Your Big Sis