It’s hard for me to grasp that you’re seriously 16 years old.

I can remember when we were little and would play “kitchen” in the dirt of our driveway every day during the summer. Or when we spent hours in the kitchen dancing and laughing our butts off over little things! I wish life could be as carefree now as it was then.

But now that you’re getting older, I have to remind myself that you can make your own decisions. I hold you back sometimes, in fear of you getting hurt. You, being in a world that is full of evil and uncertainty, is scary for me to think about. But you have to make mistakes to learn from them on your own. I hate when I see you disappointed and I’m only trying to protect you from things that hurt me. But I’ve realized that’s no longer my job.

People are going to hurt you and be mean to you. It sucks! But remember how strong you are and remember whose you are.

You’re experiencing this world with a whole new perspective and that’s exciting!

One thing I can promise: I will be there for you -- always. No matter what time it is or what I’m doing, I will be there when the phone rings. I can’t promise there won’t be lost friendships, people lying to you, or boys that break your heart. As much as I wish I could, I no longer can. You’re experiencing this world with a whole new perspective, and you’re learning new things as you go. I can’t ruin that for you.

You inspire me. It’s been a joy watching you grow into the person God has created you to be. Watching you find your way and look deeper into who you are is inspiring. You are the kindest soul I know and you love others so fearlessly. I hear what people say about you and I smile. I have the privilege of calling you my younger sister; that’s the crazy part. You are brave and you are a world changer. You remind me often that my go-getter spirit can sometimes be too much, and you remind me to approach things more peacefully. And your heart? It’s bold. It’s tender, but it’s bold.

Underneath my overprotectiveness, I’m excited to hear about your friendships, the most exciting thing about your day, and even the relationship your best friends have. When I leave for this next season in my own life, and I’m no longer living upstairs, no longer taking you to school, remember I’m just a phone call away. I’m excited to see you dominate in your career, and the passion you have for what you do.

Here are things I wish I knew when I was 16:

1. Always hold your ground and don’t compromise what you know to be true for what others want you to believe.
2. Don’t surround yourself with people who don’t build you up and encourage you to become better. They’re not worth it.
3. Don’t worry about the small stuff. Those small things aren’t as important as you think they are.
4. Learn to be confident in who you are. Be independent. It will get you farther.
5. Love others hard. There will be people who disappoint you and let you down, but don’t let that stop you from pursuing people with all the love you have to give.