To my brother as you start your college journey,

Wow, first of all where did the time go? I feel like you should still be in seventh grade asking how to make your way around the “big” high school. I can’t believe you are already at the point where you are getting ready for your first college move in day. There are a few things I need you to hear before you go…

First of all, I’m sorry I can’t be there on move in day. There is nothing I want more than to help you move in to your first college dorm room. I wish I could be there when you meet your roommate, the first person that you will live with that isn’t me. I would do anything to watch your face light up once you get your room all set up and you get to make new friends and start a new journey. Even the frustrations I wish I could be a part of. Move in day is a huge step and I am so sorry I will not be there for this major step in your life.

Next, remember where you came from. It is much easier than you think to get caught up in the rush of college and forget where you came from and what you are truly made of. College is a chance to either continue to develop yourself or even change your identity completely. My wish for you though, is that no matter who you choose to be, you don’t forget who you were to begin with and you don’t forget the people and the places that made you who you were to begin with. This is what will be with you forever.

Oh by the way, it’s okay to learn some things the hard way. You aren’t going to know everything. You can’t predict every situation. Always remember that failures are a part of life and that when you fall down, it is okay, pick yourself up, brush yourself off, and keep moving forward. I know you always say that things come easy for you, but this is a whole different situation and you won’t always know what the right answer is. That is okay.

Be happy. No matter what, do what makes you happy. Get involved in random things. Experience life from someone else’s point of view. Explore your surroundings. Don’t ever let life get you down. College will be some of the best years of your life and you only get to live them once. They go by fast, I promise. Make the most of every single day.

Always, always, always remember that I am here for you. I will always be a phone call, a text, a Face Time, etc. away from you. Do not hesitate to do any of those things. You are my best friend and you have been for the last 18 years. You are my built in best friend and I wouldn’t change that for the world. There is no one else that I would rather have by my side. Come to me with any situation, I will be here no matter what it is. Come to me at any hour of the day or the night. I will always be available to you. You are a priority to me, don’t ever think any different.

You will do absolutely fantastic this year! I do not doubt you one bit. Yes things will get hard, but some things will be easy, always push through and come out on top. Always remember that you have a best friend in me, and I will never leave your side. I love you

Love,

Your big sister