One of my favorite people in this whole world is my little sister. This might have not always been true, but it is most definitely true today.

Having a little sister changed my life when I was only two years old, when she was first born. I quickly realized I wasn't the only little girl at the center of my parent's world anymore. I hated this at first, and even resented my mother for bringing her into "my" world. It took me awhile to get used to having her around, but I eventually realized that she wasn't going anywhere any time soon.

Even though I stopped hating having her around, sisterly fights were inevitable. We yelled, argued, and annoyed each other constantly as we grew up. I'll even admit how evil I was to her sometimes. Its hard for me to believe she could really forgive me for those days, but I'm so glad she did.

My little sister is more than just that, she's my best friend. I know that I can tell her anything and everything without worrying that she'll judge me or tell anyone else. Even when I just need to complain, she's always there to listen. She's my best friend because I trust her more than anyone else.

As an older sibling, I've always wanted to be someone my little sister can look up to. I have always hoped she can learn from my mistakes and consider my past choices when making her own. So far, I think she's done a pretty good job (actually even better than me) when it comes to the tough decisions that come along with school, friends, sports, work, and relationships.

Even though I know she is more than capable of deciphering which choices are best for her, I love when she comes to me for advice. It's a great feeling being able to listen to what's going on in her life and helping as much as I can. Knowing that she values my opinion means so much to me.

Although I always strive to be a role model for my sister, she's a role model for me. I look up to her in so many ways, and I don't even think she knows.

My little sister is the smartest girl I know. Not just smart in math, or writing, or history, or science, she excels in everything. She is in nearly every advanced placement or honors class there is in her high school. She aced chemistry (which I almost failed) without a problem. She helps me with my college level math homework. She has been reading since she could pick up a book. She's always gotten above average grades. I could go on and on because I wish I was half as intelligent as she is.

Not only does she have brains, but she has so much beauty. My little sister is so beautiful. With or without makeup. I'm so jealous of how confident she seems to be in her own skin. There are days that I really don't even want to leave my room before fixing my face, and I admire how little she needs to do that. She is an amazing athlete and her body shows it.

The ability to work hard basically 24/7 is another thing I admire about my little sister. In sports and in school she is constantly working on being the best she can be. Everyone should keep in mind that being the best version of yourself is more important than being "better" than any other person. I think my sister does a very good job keeping her mind set on accomplishing her own goals, rather than being better than anyone else's.

So, thank you to my little sister. Thank you for coming into my life regardless of how much I under appreciated you. Thank you for forgiving me for all our childish fights. Thank you for valuing my opinion and coming to me for advice. Thank you for being a beautiful person inside and out. Thank you for being my role model when I'm supposed to be yours. Thank you for being more than just a sister to me, but also a true friend.

I love you.