To my insanely awesome brother,

I wish you understood how much I really do love you. I know we fought all the time growing up and we still bicker when I’m home but you hold a special place in my heart that nobody else will. I constantly find myself talking about you when I am gone and the amazing sense of humor that you have. I can’t say that I remember praying that I would have a sibling when I was younger, but I can assure you that if I had to choose I wouldn’t replace you with anybody else.

I want you to know that I am always going to be protective of you. I’m pretty sure that even when one day you are married, I am probably going to still be that overly annoying, protective big sister. That is only because I care deeply about you. When someone has done you wrong, or a girl breaks your heart, know that it tears me up inside also because you’re my little brother and you deserve the absolute best in life. When you’re happy, I’m happy; and when you are broken hearted, let’s just say I’ve had friends have to convince me out of driving home to handle the issue.

I know that as you grow up you will face trials and that you need to learn to handle those things on your own but know that I am always going to be here for you, whether that’s just to talk or to be your back up if you need it. And no I’m not going to tell Mom everything you say because I want you to be able to trust me and know that I’m going to give you the best advice I can give. I don’t want you going through the same stuff I’ve had to go through. Never feel like you can’t talk to me about something because I’ll judge you or for what ever else because I won’t. I want what is best for you and always will have your back.

If there’s anything in life I have learned, it’s that my life is garbage without Christ. So whatever you do, always do it in a manner to bring glory to the Lord. There are going to be people in your life that don’t agree with you and that are going to mock your beliefs, but never be afraid to stand up for what you know is right. Yes, that may mean you may not be as popular as everyone else and you may not necessarily have as many friends because of it, but I’m here to tell you that in the end it is all worth it. We will have eternal rewards as a result of our actions and that is far greater than anything temporary we will have on this earth. In John 15: 18-21 it says,

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me.”

So Jesus clearly warns us of these trials that we are going to face, but just don’t take it personal when they happen because it’s just a result of who you serve. Remember who wins in the end and look towards that prize to get you through the crap you are going to face.

Ultimately bro, know that I love you so so much. Even when I get annoyed when people mistake us for twins, or when you constantly remind me how much taller and stronger than me you are now, I still love you. I’m loving watching God use you in ways that you haven’t even noticed yet. He has so much in store for your life and I pray that you continue to grow in your relationship with Him daily.

Love,

Your Favorite Sister

P.S. I may secretly miss you while I’m at college.