To My Little Sister As She Grows Up,

I see all your light, and love all your dark.

I am so lucky to be able to say that my first memory is my favorite memory. When I was three years old, I remember sitting in a hospital on the edge of my seat, patiently waiting to meet my brand new little sister. Seeing her for the first time showed me that even the smallest things can gently shake the world. I like to say that this was the day I learned how to love something more than myself.

I couldn’t imagine growing up without my younger sister. For the last 15 years, she has pushed me every single day to become the best version of myself. So when I finally made the decision to attend college out of state, I couldn’t help but wonder what would happen to our relationship. Leaving everything I’d ever known behind was hard, but knowing I would miss watching my baby sister grow up right before my eyes devastated me. As I started a new chapter of my life as a freshman in college, she was starting her freshman year of high school back home.

There is no feeling like being a big sister. With this role, I am promised a duet partner, personal photographer, second closet, and a lifelong best friend. From screaming "High School Musical" at the top of our lungs to getting completely lost in corn mazes, there is never ever a dull moment when we are together…and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

You are full of laughter, talent, intelligence, and so much more. I have no doubt in my mind that you will grow up and take this world by storm. I hope I’ve played, and will continue to play, an important role in walking you down the paths you chose. Your heart is packed with so much love for this beautiful life, may your happiness and passion never stop radiating off of you.

I can only hope that I have been the role model you’ve needed while growing up these last few years. If I have anything else to say, it’s this:

Remember that absolutely nothing in this life is promised, so live each and every day like it will be your last. You have so much more to do than be weighed down by "beautiful" or "pretty." You have a fiery heart and a wicked brain, so do not let your soul be defined by the shell. Even though you are in a rush to grow up, don’t forget to slow down once in a while and soak in everything around you. Allow the space--between where you are and where you want to be--to inspire you, not terrify you. Never be afraid to take the road less traveled, or blaze your own path... you do come from a long line of strong women. Surround yourself with people that will hold your hand while you walk down unknown roads, and celebrate when you finally get to your destination. Know that a candle loses nothing by lighting another candle, so always build others up instead of burning them down. There will be bad days, and you will wake up the next morning and try again. When you open your eyes and think “I can’t do this,” I hope you laugh and remember all the times you have felt that way. There is no mountain you cannot climb (especially since we live in them) and I can’t wait to see what heights you achieve. When you get there, take in the view… you’ve earned it. No matter how many people tell you it’s impossible, chase your dreams…I promise you it’s worth it.

So here I am, six hours away from home…and I can proudly say that these last few months apart have only brought us closer together. Remember that I will always be your best friend, biggest fan, and most of all…your sister.

Love,

Your (favorite) Big Sister