Dear Little Sis,

I would like to start by telling you that even though I may not show it all the time, I love you very much. Even in the midst of our most viscous fights, I still love you unconditionally. No matter how mad I get after you repeatedly borrow my clothes without asking (which is infuriating), I never once have questioned my love for you. The bond between sisters is one that is unlike any other bond. It is truly unbreakable.

At the age of 4, I remember sitting by my bedroom window, praying to God and asking Him for a baby sister. I was absolutely elated with joy when mom and dad told me I was going to get to be a big sister. At the time, I obviously had no idea what I was getting myself into. I remember the day you were born just like it was yesterday. I was excited for your arrival, but I remember being a bit more excited because I received a Baby Alive doll as a "big sister gift." I was 4 years old, what do you expect? I also remember throwing a red shoe in the direction of your car seat the day mom and dad brought you home from the hospital. Let's face it; I threw that shoe at you on purpose. I am sorry about that. In my defense, I had been running the show in our family for 4 years, and here you came along disrupting my tirade. I was upset at the time, and I was completely oblivious of the blessing I had just received: a baby sister.

I am a student, a daughter, an employee, and a friend. But out of all these roles I play in my life, being your big sister is definitely my favorite. Like I said, even though we fight (and we fight A LOT), being your big sister is the most rewarding job in the world. I don't think you realize how much I appreciate our time together. All of these summer nights that we have stayed up ridiculously late watching funny YouTube videos have been some of the best nights of my life. We are growing up, and I know that someday we wont be able to have nights like these. You may think these silly nights are just full of laughter and goofiness, but I cherish them so much more than that.

Having the opportunity to watch you grow up and succeed has been so fulfilling for me. Every time you've won a student council election or landed a new tumbling skill, my heart fills with pride and joy. You are so smart, kind and caring. You are so beautiful on the inside and out. You truly have a heart of gold. Your dedication to being a good student, a good role model to others and a trustworthy person amazes me. I am so, very proud of you.

Lastly, I want you to know that I will always be here for you. You have been and will always will be my very best friend. Through the ups and downs, we will always have each other. At 4 years old, I didn't realize the real gift I had received on the day you were born. Throughout the years since that day, I have realized what a blessing you are in my life. At times, it is difficult being your sister. We push each other's buttons, but hey, that's what sisters do. When God gave me a little sister, He gave me a life-long best friend. I am eternally grateful for that. I love you.

Love,

Your big sister.