A little sister is a very special gift to be given; sometimes they’re so annoying that I wish I could just sell them online (I'm kidding, of course), and sometimes just the thought of them not being in my life is enough to make me cry. If you’re lucky enough to have a sister who loves and supports you, please don’t ever take her for granted.

These are the lessons I've learned from not just having one younger sister, but two! So with having a little sister, you may understand the crazy memories, jokes, frustrations and lessons.

1. Sharing is caring.

Having a little sister has taught me how to share, whether I like it or not. We share almost everything: clothes, food, makeup, hair products—you name it. Sometimes it's kind of nice to be able to look in my sister's closet when I don't know what to wear, but it's not so nice when I'm searching everywhere for my new blue dress and I walk downstairs to find her wearing it.

2. Patience is necessary.

I love my little sisters to pieces, but sometimes they get on my last nerve. They shout while I'm trying to study or endlessly whine to take them shopping while I'm trying to take a nap. They'll even cry (and sometimes tattle to Mom) when I snap at them for doing those things. Needless to say, I've needed to learn to use my gentle voice, and see the world through their eyes.

3. Imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery.

Growing up, I absolutely resented the fact my little sisters wanted to wear the clothes I wore, listen to the music I listened to, play the sports I played and do whatever else it took to become a miniature version of me. Now that I'm older, I love it. It really is a huge compliment to me that my little sisters think I'm someone they want to be like. On top of that, because I know that they will mimic me, I am encouraged to set a better example for them.

4. Sisters don't judge.

Sisters are a safe place. My sisters see the ugly, unfiltered side of me, and they still love me. No matter how I look or how I feel, I know I'm safe to walk across the hall into my sister's room and crash onto her bed. Even when I'm crabby or sad, they'll always welcome me with open arms.

5. I have someone who always has my back.

Sometimes we might bicker for a short while, but in the long run, my little sisters and I will always back each other up when we need it. When it comes down to it, nobody messes with my little sister—except for me!

6. A good sister is brutally honest with you.

Sometimes the harsh truth can hurt. I am reminded of this when I walk downstairs in a new shirt, and my sister immediately tells me how ugly it is, or when she points out how bad my hair looks at that moment. I've learned to appreciate it though, because I would rather hear it from her at home than catch it in my reflection out in public.

7. It's okay to laugh at yourself.

Nobody is going to remind you of all your weird quirks, or embarrassing things you've done, more than your little sister. We're all a little odd, so you may as well just get comfortable with it and learn to laugh along.

8. Unconditional love is so real.

I love my sisters, no matter what. When my sisters are driving me nuts and I want to kill them, I still love them with all of my heart. Even when they make mistakes, I am still nothing short of beaming with pride because of them. I could spend all day telling my friends about my sisters because I think they are the greatest people ever. They have helped to show me what unconditional love is, and

how everyone deserves love like that.

9. I never have to feel alone.

My sister is a built-in person to hang out with. If I ever feel lonely, I can just shout across the hall to my sister and ask if she wants to go get Starbucks or watch a t.v. show with me. Little sisters are the best little companions to have around.

10. Little sisters are the best friends ever.

My little sisters are my best friends. Having little sisters means having someone to vent to, to ask for fashion advice and to drag to the store with me. Aside from sharing things such as clothes, food and makeup, we also share problems, interests and inside jokes. We're alike in a lot of ways, but also different in a lot of ways, so we can use our likenesses and differences to make each other better.I may not show it as well as I could, but I really love my little sisters. Life would suck without my mini-me's. Thank you for always loving me when I don't deserve it and for filling my life with joy. I am so blessed to have you.