Dear Younger Sibling,

Since you were born, I have felt the responsibility and duty to walk you through the ropes of life, teach you lessons, hug when you are happiest and give a shoulder for you to cry on when you are sad. Your laughter gives me hope and your smile gives me joy. From watching your kindergarten chorus performances to seeing you make a personal running record, I have been with you since day one and will always be there for you.

You may think when you come to me for advice I know what I am talking about and know the right thing to do. But, no, I am not perfect. It’s hard for me to say out loud. I am not perfect and I make mistakes. As an older sister, I always feel the responsibility to portray myself like I do not make mistakes. It’s hard for me to admit when I am wrong because I want you to look up to me. I do not want you to see my flaws because you are flawless in everything you do.

Secretly, I look up to you from your daily perseverance and your constant strength. You make me believe in myself. You know what your heart wants and you know what you desire. You come to me for advice, thinking my advice comes from within, but I think you always already know what to do.

I am writing this to you for the times I am not there. For the times you call and I don’t answer. The times when I am not perfect and get my head lost in a minor detail when you are the big picture in my life.

Continue working on what your heart leans towards. That gut feeling is normally the answer. You know it is. Don’t wait for me to agree. I know that you have a goal in your head and you will achieve it best your way.

Always dream and never let go. Let your vision be your guide. You know where you want to be so take one step at a time. And hey, a step in the wrong direction is just a minor stop. In everything you do, there are struggles, but you have the determination to not let a blip on the radar stop you.

During times when you want to cry, think about times that we laughed so hard we couldn’t stop laughing. During times when you want to yell, take a deep breath and remember all things pass. And during times when you want to laugh, text me; everyone needs a good laugh.

Remember that you can do anything you put your mind to and to have strength in all challenges.

You are beautiful inside and out, and anybody who does not notice does not deserve your attention or tears. Keep spreading your inner and outer beauty.

Love,

Your Older Sister